A morphogenetic role for ethylene in hypocotyl cultures of Digitalis obscura L.

The effect of exogenously applied ethylene on organogenesis in Digitalis obscura L. hypocotyls cultured in vitro was studied. Interactions of this gas with other growth regulators was also tested. Ethylene by itself only promoted root formation. Shoot regeneration was obtained in presence of indoleacetic acid and kinetin. The addition of ethylene (10 ppm) increased the caulogenetic action of this medium; higher concentrations than 10 ppm reduced this response. Kinetin alone did not promote organogenesis and nullified the promotive effect of ethylene on rhizogenesis.