Effect of trace metals on the restoration potential of leaves of the medicinal plant,Portulaca oleracea linn

The effect of Cd, Cu, Zn, Hg, and Pb solutions at various concentrations, on the restoration potential of the leaves ofPortulaca oleracea was tested. All the trace metals completely affected the shoot regeneration. The degree of their effect on root regeneration, however, varied. Early initiation of parental leaf decay was also observed. The order of their relative effect on the regeneration process was: Cd > Cu > Zn > Hg > Pb.