Therefore, in order to improve shoot elongation, stem segments were cultured on B5, ½ B5 or on ½ MSM medium supplemented with coconut water. Explants cultured on B5 medium resulted in development of large, yellowish leaves, in addition to formation of basal calluses, and root development after 30 days culture. Cultures maintained on half-strength B5 medium (½ B5) showed only callus formation at the bottom of the explants (data not shown).