Anthocyanin production in callus cultures of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)

Callus tissues derived from seedlings of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) were shown to produce two cyanidin glycosides as major anthocyanin pigments. Both callus growth and anthocyanin synthesis were remarkably stimulated by 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid. The highest anthocyanin yield was observed when 1 μM 2,4-D in combination with 0.1-1 μM kinetin was supplemented to the culture medium. In contrast, gibberellic acid showed inhibitory effect on anthocyanin production.