RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: To study tissue culture of Trichosanthes kirilowii, and establish the technique of rapid propagation. METHODS: Cluster buds were induced from stem tip and stem with axillary bud, calluses were induced from stems and leaves. RESULTS: Cluster buds could be induced on both the bud and axillary bud from 2-years-old tuber of Trichosanthes kirilowii with MS medium containing 2 mg/L BA and 0.5 -0.05 mg/L NAA. The roots could be induced with MS + 0.1 mg/L NAA + 0.2 mg/L IBA. The seedling with roots could be transplanted after domestication, and achieved the rapid seedling propagation. Calluses could be induced from the stems and leaves with MS + 4 mg/L BA + 0.5 mg/L NAA, and the calluses then could be differentiated into seedlings without root. CONCLUSION: The male and female seedlings of Trichosanthes kirilowii can be propagated largely using stem tip or axillary bud in short period. The technique of rapid propagation on Trichosanthes kirilowii have a high benefit and low costs.