Direct Shoot Regeneration from Leaf Explants of Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.)

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.) is a biennial long day plant and is economically important for its medicinal, food and ornamental values. In vitro plantlets were directly regenerated from the leaf explants in MS medium supplemented with different concentrations of IAA/IBA in combination with BAP. Multiple shoots were developed within 30 days. After 30 days in MS medium supplemented with IAA/IBA/NAA. Roots were initiated within 15 days and the plantlets with well established roots were developed after 30 days. In vitro flower heads were also noticed in the matured plantlets in the same medium. The rooted plantlets were well established in the field.