ADVANCES IN PROPAGATION, GENETIC FIDELITY ASSESSMENT AND CONSERVATION OF JASMINUM SPECIES

Abstract

Jasminum species are economically important ornamental and aromatic crops valued for their fragrant flowers and essential oil production. Efficient propagation is essential for the large-scale multiplication, conservation, and utilisation of elite genotypes. Conventional propagation methods, particularly stem cuttings and layering, remain widely used because of their simplicity and low cost, but their effectiveness is often limited by seasonal dependence, low multiplication rates, and inconsistent rooting responses. In vitro propagation offers an alternative approach for the rapid production of uniform and disease-free planting material under controlled conditions. This review critically compares conventional and micropropagation systems in Jasminum, focusing on factors influencing rooting, shoot multiplication, acclimatisation, and plant establishment. The roles of plant growth regulators, culture media, environmental conditions, and rooting substrates in improving propagation efficiency are examined. The review also discusses somaclonal variation and highlights the use of molecular markers, particularly RAPD and ISSR, to assess genetic fidelity in micropropagated plants. Although micropropagation requires specialised infrastructure and technical expertise, it provides significant advantages for the rapid multiplication and conservation of superior germplasm. An integrated propagation strategy combining conventional and in vitro approaches offers a sustainable framework for large-scale production, conservation, and genetic improvement of Jasminum species.