Somatic embryogenesis in Encephalartos cycadifolius

Callus cultures of Encephalartos cycadifolius were established from zygotic embryo explants on a modified B5 medium containing 1 mg l(-1) 2,4-D and 1 mg l(-1) kinetin. Callus was transferred to media containing various combinations of 2,4-D and kinetin for improvement of somatic embryogenesis. Somatic embryos were produced on media with several growth regulator combinations. The somatic embryos developed from proembryos, which developed long suspensors. A dicotyledonary embryo formed at the distal end of the suspensor. The embryos turned green in Light. When transferred to a medium containing 1 mg l(-1) ABA the somatic embryos matured. The suspensors desiccated and these embryos rooted when transferred to a medium without phytohormones.