This study investigated the growth dynamics of Lilium miquelianum bulb scales cultured in four different media formulations: Full Murashige-Skoog (FMS), Half Murashige-Skoog (HMS), Anderson Vitamin (AV), and Knudson Vitamin (KV). Bulb scales were collected from native populations on Jeju Island, Korea, and cultured in vitro for 12 weeks. Growth parameters, including bulb area and scale count, were measured at 3-week intervals. Statistical analyses revealed significant differences in growth rates across media types and time points. FMS consistently demonstrated the highest growth rates and final bulb area and scale count, while KV exhibited the lowest performance. Heatmap analysis showed that FMS achieved the highest weekly growth rates in most time points, with HMS showing comparable performance during early growth stages. Individual sample growth rates varied within media, highlighting the influence of both external and internal factors on growth. Correlation analysis revealed a positive association between bulb size and scale quantity, with FMS exhibiting the strongest relationship. These findings emphasize the importance of appropriate media selection for optimal L. miquelianum propagation, with FMS being the most suitable for extended cultivation. This research provides valuable insights for improving propagation efficiency and conservation efforts of L. miquelianum.

Polyploidization, or genome doubling, has a significant impact on plant speciation and adaptation, and it is commonly used in agriculture to improve crop traits. In this study, we investigated the induction of polyploidy in three wild Allium species native to Korea: A. senescens and A. spirale Willd. and A. taquetii, using colchicine treatments tailored to meet specific experimental requirements. By avoiding tissue culture methods, we developed a more accessible, cost-effective, and scalable approach to polyploidization. Our research demonstrated that polyploid Allium plants exhibit distinct phenotypic changes, such as reduced growth rates and increased stomatal size. Flow cytometry and chromosome counting confirmed the successful induction of polyploidy, with clear peaks indicating double DNA content and stable chromosome numbers in polyploid plants. The presence of B chromosomes in A. spirale Willd. following polyploidization suggest interesting genetic dynamics. Despite the initial growth lags, polyploid plants may offer enhanced photosynthetic efficiency and resilience under optimal conditions. This study highlights the potential of polyploidization to improve ornamental traits in Allium species, thereby contributing to the diversification and sustainability of ornamental plant offerings. Future research should focus on the long-term performance and ecological adaptability of polyploid Allium species to fully harness their horticultural potential.