This study describes for the first time a simple and quick direct somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration protocol for turmeric {Curcuma longa L.) using leaf base explants. Preincubation of explants was carried out on solid MS medium containing 4.49 uM 2,4-dichlorophenoxy acetic acid (2,4-D) for 20 days under continuous dark condition. Subsequently transfer of the explants for two weeks to MS liquid medium containing 1.32 μM 6-benzyladenine (BA) under illuminated condition resulted in the highest percentage of somatic embryo (91.1 %) induction. Matured somatic embryos germinated readily and the maximal plantlet development (87.0 %) was achieved on 1/2-strength MS medium containing gibberellic acid (GA3) under dark condition. Histological analysis revealed that the proembryogenic masses were initiated directly from the area near the vascular tissues of the base explants Presence of clear protoderm and procambial strands confirmed that these structures were true somatic embryos. Those somatic embryo derived plantlets were successfully acclimatized ex vitro and transplanted to pots.
