OBJECTIVETo establish and optimize the rapid propagation system of Polygonum multiflorum, as well as explore method for induction and identification of autotetraploid.

METHODPropagation medium was optimized by orthogonal test. The buds were immersed in colchicine solution with different concentrations for different time to select induction conditions for autotetraploid of P. multiflorum.

RESULTThe most appropriate propagation medium was MS medium supplemented with 1.0 mg x L(-1) 6-BA, 0.3 mg x L(-1) NAA, and 0.4 mg x L(-1) PP333. That the buds were soaked in 0.2% colchicine solution for 30 h, or soaked in 0.3% colchicine solution for 18 h, was optimal condition to induce autopolyploid of P. multiflorum with induction rate as high as 16.7%.

CONCLUSIONRapid propagation of P. multiflorum could be achieved by tissue culture. Furthermore, colchicine was an effective inducer of polyploidy, and 25 tetraploid lines were obtained through chromosome identification. The experiment laid a foundation for the wild resource conservation, superior varieties breeding of P. multiflorum.