A new protocol for direct regeneration of stevia plant (Stevia rebaudiana Bertoni) by tissue culture techniques

Purpose: Due to pharmaceutical value of Stevia plant (Stevia rebudiana Bertoni.), this study was done to introduce a new protocol for rapid mass propagation of itthrough tissue culture. Research Method: In MS medium shoot proliferation of stevia by six concentrations of BA (0, 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, 0.5 mg·l-1) and root induction by four concentrations of IBA (0, 0.025, 0.05, 0.1 mg·l-1) was investigated.Rooting of cuttings was done both in vitro and ex vivo conditions. Findings: According to the results, the most number of stems obtained in MS medium containing 0.3 mg l-1 BA. The highest length of stems obtained in MS medium without BA and the most number of leaves observed in MS medium supplemented with 0.4 mg·l-1 BA. In in vitro situation, the most number and length of roots obtained in MS medium without IBA. The most number of rooted cuttings was obtained in IBA solution after 72 hours and about 70% of rooted cuttings were healthy. Research limitations: It had no limitation to report. Originality/value: In conclusion, it seems that the potential of producing root and shoots in stevia plant is extremely high, so its proliferation is possible using low concentrations of plant growth regulators in in vitro culture.