Growth and essential oil accumulation in rhizomes of curcuma zedoaria rosc

Abstract

Curcuma zedoaria Rosc. (Zingiberaceae) is a herbaceous and rhizomatous perennial species found in tropical countries, such as Viet Nam, India and Thailand. Rhizomes of this plant accumulate essential oil which is used as a condiment, in perfumery, and as a medicine. Growth of the rhizomes is derived from a primary thickening meristem which produces vast amounts of parenchyma to the inside. Essential oil droplets in transverse thin sections from the rhizomes are observed under light microscope. Roles of plant growth regulators on rhizome growth and relationship between growth and essential oil production were discussed.