An efficient method for mass micro propagation of Pleione praecox (J. E. Smith) D. Don (Orchidaceae) was developed from asymbiotic immature seed culture. Both direct and callus-mediated formation of protocorm-like bodies (PLBs) occurred from explant. High frequency (90–95 %) of seed germination and direct protocorm-like body formation were observed in the Orchimax medium supplemented with 0.1–0.2 mg/l α-naphthalene acetic acid (NAA) and 15 % coconut water (CW). Callusing of seed explant was noted in the same basal medium supplemented with 1–2 mg/l NAA and 15 % coconut water. Subsequent regeneration of PLBs and development of plantlets from callus tissue was found only in the absence of NAA in the medium. Rooting plantlets were obtained only in basal medium free from hormone and adjunct.
Keywords: Pleione praecox, direct and indirect protocorm, plantlet formation.