In Vitro Propagation of Satureja Abyssinica (Benth.) Briq. – A Valuable Medicinal Plant

Satureja abyssinica is an endangered medicinal plant. The aim of this study was to develop micropropagation protocol for S. abyssinica using shoot tips. Cultures were initiated on MS media containing various concentrations of BAP (6-benzyl amino purine) and KIN (Kinetin). The best culture initiation (100%) with 16.30±0.95 mean number of shoot was attained in the presence of 1.5 mg/l BAP. In shoot multiplication media, different concentrations and combinations of BAP, KIN and NAA (α-Naphthalene acetic acid) were used. Maximum number of shoot (20.53±2.59) was obtained on MS medium fortified with 1.25 mg/l KIN. The greatest shoot height (3.41±0.36) was achieved in the presence of 0.5 mg/l BAP. The highest induction (100%) and maximum mean number of root (25.80±2.19) was performed on ½ MS medium augmented with 2.0 mg/l IBA (Indole-3- butyric acid). Best root length (1.98±0.09) was obtained on medium supplemented with 1.0 mg/l IBA. On rooting media, best mean number of shoot (5.46±0.79) and shoot length (5.80±0.69 cm) were received on medium containing 0.2 mg/l NAA and 0.5 mg/l IAA respectively. Highest survival rate (96%) of plantlets was achieved during acclimatization. The present study is point out a great micropropagation protocol for this medicinally important taxon. Keywords: Medicinal plant, Micropropagation, Satureja abyssinica, Shoot tip