In vitro propagation of Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal. from shoot apex explants

In vitro rapid micropropagation of Withania somnifera; has been achieved using shoot apex explants, when cultured on MS medium with different auxins: Indole Butyric Acid (IBA) 0.5-4 mg/l, Indole Acetic Acid (IAA) 2 mg/l and Naphthalene Acetic Acid (NAA) 0.5-3 mg/l and cytokinin: Benzyl Amino Purine (BAP) 0.5-4 mg/l. NAA and BAP stimulated direct as well as callus mediated multiple shoot. IBA alone and in combination with IAA stimulated rhizogenesis, while IBA with NAA proliferated callus-mediated rhizogenesis. The rooted plantlets through sequential hardening process could be established in the field.