Efficiency of Sandy Everlasting [Helichrysum arenarium (L.) Moench] cultivation from in vitro seedlings and achenes

Sandy Everlasting [Helichrysum arenarium (L.) Moench] is a perennial of the Asteraceae family whose inflorescences (Inflorescentia Helichrysi = Flos Stoechados citrini) are valuable herbal material. The influence of different soil types (sandy vs. clayey soil) on the growth and further development of in vitro seedlings was studied in field experiments. Separate experiments showed the influence of sowing time (late autumn vs. early spring) and the inoculation with a mycorrhizal fungus Glomus intraradices on the development of the plants developing from achenes. For comparison purposes the results of biometric measurements obtained in the second year of flowering were selected, although it might fall on different calendar years. This was due to the fact that the most intensive growth and the most abundant flowering occurred in the third year of cultivation, regardless of the cultivation method and weather conditions. These studies demonstrated that both cultivation methods were feasible, as each of them yielded a particular amount of valuable, raw herbal material. Each method generates some costs and has its own advantages and disadvantages. The in vitro technique seems to be more profitable as it allows the acquisition of a potentially unlimited number of shapely plants that flower at the same time. This method is also less harmful to the natural environment.

► Two field experiments to obtain herbal material were conducted. ► The influence of various media used for adaptation of in vitro plantlets was studied. ► The impact of sowing date and inoculation on the yield was analyzed. ► Both tested cultivation methods entail considerable expenses. ► The technique ensures homogenous plantation of shapely plants.