EN
A method for micropropagation of the protected species Gentiana pneumonanthe L. by somatic embryogenesis (SE) was elaborated. For SE induction, secondary explants of leaves and apical meristems from in vitro cultures were successfully used. Tests of callus induction were carried out on ten media containing BA (0.04-8.0 µM) and Picloram or 2,4-D (4.0-8.0 µM). The greatest amounts of embryogenic callus developed on media containing 2,4-D and also when the incubation period in darkness was prolonged. Embryos matured on media with reduced content of auxins [Picloram or 2,4-D (0.8 µM or 0.08 µM) and BA (0.8 µM)] and germinated on hormone-free media. Cytometric analysis of the callus and plants obtained from somatic embryos showed that DNA content differed from that of the mother plants, but acclimatized marsh gentians contained the same amount of DNA as donor plants.