Abstract: The effects of some physical and chemical factors on callus growth and shikonin derivative formation in the callus cultures of Arnebla euchroma were discussed. According to experiments, the optimum temperature for callus growth and shikonin derivative formation was 25℃, and the favorable initial pH of media was in the range of 5.3–5.8. Authors also found that both callus growth and shikonin derivative formation were strongly inhibited by white light. Callus growth was promoted when 0.2 mg/L IAA and 0.5 mg/L KT were added to the media, but IAA and KT did not promote shikonin derivative formation. Furthermore, the content and yield of shikonin derivatives in cultures decreased in company with the increase of IAA and KT concentration in the media.

Key words: Arnebia euchroma, Callus culture, shikonin derivatives, Physical and chemical factors