In vitro techniques for propagation and breeding of Edible Flowers - recent achievements

Técnicas in vitro para propagação e melhoramento de flores comestíveis - avanços recentes

Abstract

In vitro propagation is widely used in different crops for mass multiplication and the creation of new cultivars. While edible flowers are a part of the ornamental industry, the use of in vitro techniques for these plants has only recently begun. Considering the importance of these species, this review aimed to examine recent advances in the use of in vitro techniques for the propagation and improvement of edible flowers, highlighting their applications, challenges, and recent findings. The number of publications in this field is still limited, with most focusing on shoot proliferation. Callogenesis studies are particularly relevant as they enable the detection, identification, and production of secondary metabolites. Biotechnological approaches, such as genetic transformation and CRISPR, were also identified, though only in a few studies. In conclusion, despite ongoing research, in vitro propagation of edible flowers remains a largely unexplored area, with significant potential as new alternative food and medicinal crop.

Keywords:
antioxidants; metabolites; micropropagation; ornamental plants; biotechnology; tissue culture; nutraceutical plants