In vitro Asymbiotic Germination and Propagation of Paphiopedilum concolor (Lindl.) Pfitz.

Different embryo-aged Paphiopedilum concolor seeds were collected and their structure, germination process, and effective regeneration conditions were investigated. Results showed that the seeds collected from 210-240 days after pollination (DAP) were optimum for culture in vitro, and the seed germination percentage of 210 DAP was the highest (77.79%). Furthermore, 1/4 MS (Murashige and Skoog culture medium) and 1/2 MS were both suitable for germination, and the addition of 100 mL/L coconut water (CW) and 1 g/L peptone had a positive effect on seed germination and protocorm differentiation. The addition of 1 g/L activated charcoal (AC) inhibited protocorm browning and death, while the addition of 2 g/L AC increased the browning and mortality rates. Banana juice and apple juice had a negative effect on seed germination and protocorm differentiation. After culturing of transferred differentiation protocorm on rooting medium for 120 days, the healthy robust seedlings were 3-5 cm tall and had 5-6 leaves.