In vitro propagation of Vanda testacea ( Lindl . ) Reichb . f . – a rare orchid of high medicinal value

The present studies report in vitro propagation of a rare and medicinally important orchid Vanda testacea through foliar explants. Explants were cultured on Mitra et al. (M) medium and its combinations with cytokinins (BAP, Kn 1 mgl each) and auxin (NAA 1 mgl) individually and in combination for initiation of regeneration response, proliferation of regenerants and subsequent development of plantlets. Juvenility of the tissues and chemical stimulus were important factors in initiating the regeneration response in the explants. The explants of relatively older leaves (›1cm in length) remained recalcitrant to regeneration, whereas those of younger ones (‹1cm in length) responded to certain chemical regimes. Cytokinins (BAP, Kn) individually in the medium induced direct PLB regeneration in the explants, whereas with NAA, the explants showed callus proliferation that further differentiated into PLBs. An individual treatment with NAA (1 mgl) impaired the response frequency and delayed further morphogenetic processes. The best response in the explants (in terms of high regeneration frequency, early initiation, PLB proliferations, and plantlet development) was observed in BAP 1.0 mgl alone/with NAA 1.0 mgl fortified with activated charcoal (2 g l). Plantlets were transferred to pots containing epiphytic compost. Nearly 75% of plantlets survival was recorded. Introduction Vanda testacea (Lindl.) Reichb.f. (= V. parviflora Lindl.) known as Banda or Rasna, an alkaloid rich epiphytic species of vandaceous orchids, is widely known for its medicinal properties. Almost all plant parts (roots, leaves, flowers) in powder form or as an extract are used as herbal medicines to cure rheumatism, bronchitis, nervous disorders, piles, and inflammations as well as a potential anti-cancerous drug (Chauhan1990). This medicinally important