Propagação vegetativa de ora-pro-nóbis

Abstract

Pereskia aculeata (ora-pro-nóbis) is an unconventional food plant used for human consumption due to its high protein content and other nutrients. Although it is easily propagated through stem cuttings, little is known about the performance of these cuttings in seedling tubes or pots under large-scale commercial production conditions. Its flowering is highly appreciated for both its ornamental value and its fragrance. This study aimed to evaluate the rooting capacity of different types of cuttings (apical and median cuttings) treated with different concentrations of indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) (0, 500, 1000, 1500, and 2000 mg L⁻¹). The experiment was conducted from March to April 2024 at the Vegetable Crops Teaching and Research Unit of the Federal University of Technology – Paraná (UTFPR-DV). A completely randomized design (CRD) was used in a 5 × 2 factorial arrangement with eight replicates. The evaluated variables were longest root length, root dry mass, plant height, and the percentage of floral buds that bloomed. Data were subjected to Duncan's multiple range test at the 5% significance level. The results showed no interaction between cutting type and IBA concentration in the propagation of P. aculeata. Apical and median cuttings exhibited similar performance, indicating that both can be used for seedling production. IBA affected only the longest root length, with the best result obtained at 2000 mg L⁻¹, while no significant effects were observed for the other variables. For the production of P. aculeata seedlings, both apical and median cuttings can be used. IBA application promoted beneficial effects on rooting by increasing root length, an important characteristic for successful seedling establishment after transplanting to the field.