Effects of Macronutrients on Anthocyanin Production in Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) Callus Cultures.

The effects of various macronutrients on growth and anthocyanin formation in callus cultures of roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.) were investigated. Of the nutritional factors examined the type and concentration of carbon and nitrogen sources and phosphate concentration showed marked effects on the growth and anthocyanin production. Utilization of an optimized medium based on the results obtained in the present investigation resulted in a 2.5 fold increase in the anthocyanin content. Potential exists for application of a two-stage culture method for the production of anthocyanin pigment.