The in vitro regenerated plantlets of date palm (Phoenix daetylifera L.) cv. Sewi, Via somatic embryogenesis, were visually screened at an early stage of their
development; one foliage leaf. The observed off-types were classified into nine
morphological groups and were compared to the normal plantlets with respect to
morphological, anatomical characteristics of the leaf in addition to DNA profile using
RAPD-PCR technique. The morphological variations included petiole shape and
length, lamina shape, length, width and colour, whereas the main anatomical changes
included mesophyll thickness, midrib zone, number of vascular bundles and xylem
elements. DNA analysis revealed a high level of genetic variation correlated with the
morphological changes.