Variation in somaclonal progeny of saintpaulia as influenced by explant phenotype

Three phenotypically variable explants of variegated Saintpaulia leaf cultured on modified MS medium, rooted and grown in potting mix under controlled environment revealed that each explant has the ability to produce adventitious shoots with dark green, light green and variegated leaves. Percentages of the dark green leaves were higher than light green whereas the variegated were of the lowest percentages. Chromosome number (2n = 26) and chlorophyll content of the three phenotype were not significantly different but darkening of leaf colour was associated with higher anthocyanin content. At early maturation, 39.2 per cent of the variegated leaves became solid dark green. Progeny of the variegated explant were the least stable and that of the light green were the most stable.