1Laboratory of Plant Biotechnology, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences BP. 2121, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, 93002 Tetouan, Morocco. 2Biology, Ecology and Health Laboratory (code: UAE/U08 Faculty of Sciences, BP. 2121, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tetouan, Morocco), and the National Federation Associations of Healers and Practitioners of Medicine, The Ministry of Public Health of Chad, N’Djamena, Republic of Chad. 3Laboratory of Biology and Health, Biology Department, Faculty of Sciences BP. 2121, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, 93002 Tetouan, Morocco. Corresponding e-mail: ibtissam.boussaoudi@etu.uae.ac.ma
DOI: https://doi.org/10.37855/jah.2024.v26i04.81
Key words: Bay leaves, Laurus nobilis L., conservation, in vitro and in vivo culture, Morocco
Abstract: The study explored seed germination and propagation through cutting in Laurus nobilis L. with a focus on in vitro and in vivo regeneration techniques for multiplication and sustainable conservation of diversity in the species. Seed germination was achieved through pre-soaking for 7 days, followed by cold stratification at -4 °C for 50 days. The results showed that seed imbibition greatly increased germination rates (65%), however, germination in sand (14%), and peat (12%) was less successful. Imbibed seeds had a greater seedling survival rate (40%) in peat attaining better plant height. The in vitro germination of wild Moroccan L. nobilis was accomplished by scarification of kernels with sulphuric acid (34 N). Seedlings from whole fruits had the best survival rate (33.33%), followed by kernels (25%). Micropropagation of twigs using MS media with kinetin and indole-3-acetic acid proved efficient, providing useful methods for the domestication and conservation of L. nobilis .
