In vitro multiplication ofVella lucentina M. B. crespo (Brassicaceae), a threatened Spanish endemic species

Summary Vella lucentina M. B. Crespo is a threatened Spanish species that is endemic to a small area in eastern Alicante Province (SE Spain). Micropropagation techniques were applied forex situ conservation of this plant. Aseptic epicotyls bearing the apical bud were grown in Murashige and Skoog medium supplemented with 6-furfurylaminopurine (Kin), N⁶-benzyladenine (BA) or 6-(γ,γ,-dimethilalylamino) purine (2iP). High multiplication rates were obtained with 0.5, 1, or 2 mg·liter⁻¹ BA, or 1 or 2 mg·liter⁻¹ 2iP. Indole-3-acetic acid and indole-3-butyric acid were utilized for rooting in half-strength Murashige and Skoog medium. Regenerated plants were transferred to a potting mix and gradually acclimated to field conditions. No morphological differences were observed amongin vitro andin vivo plants.