Orchids are seriously endangered species. For that reason, studies regarding their propagation and development are extremely important. Thus, the present study analyzed the influence of the culture medium on the in vitro germination of Hadrolaelia tenebrosa seeds, on the initial development of protocorms until they form seedlings and on seedling growth during the first twelve months in vitro. The results revealed that the ideal methodology for the in vitro culture of Hadrolaelia tenebrosa involves the use the Knudson's C medium for seed germination and seedling initial growth, and the subsequent transfer of six-month-old plants to VW medium where they should remain until acclimatization is carried out. The obtained data showed that the most efficient culture medium for seed germination of that species was not the most adequate for the development of their seedlings. Therefore, the outcomes of such studies are very important for the optimization of propagation techniques for orchid species.
asymbiotic germination; in vitro culture; media culture; orchid
