We have previously shown (Flores and Sgrignoli, 1991) that immature em
bryos of Taxus brevifolia and T. X media are capable of precocious ger
mination and can grow into seedlings in vitro. The cultural and enviro
nmental parameters for embryo germination and conversion into seedling
s have been optimized and extended to T. baccata and T. cuspidata. A 1
4-h photoperiod improved embryo germination and growth into seedlings.
A pregermination cold treatment of the seeds had a positive effect on
both the onset and percentage of germination. Embryos from cold-treat
ed seeds germinated earlier and at a higher frequency than those from
control seeds. Boron was necessary for embryo germination, and levels
of this micronutrient were established for optimal growth and germinat
ion of T. brevifolia and T. X media cv. Hicksii embryos. Gupta and Dur
zan's medium was superior to White's for embryo germination and root f
ormation. Naphthaleneacetic acid stimulated root formation in embryo-d
erived seedlings. We also found that immature embryos could be induced
to form callus with embryogenic potential. Taxol and related taxanes
were detected in embryo- derived seedlings.