Young leaf segments from micropropagated plants were used to study the optimum medium and growth regulators for callus induction of Ilex kudingcha. The highest multiplication rate for callus induction and subculture of calluses was obtained using MS medium supplemented with 2.0 mg L-1 BA and 4.0 mg L-1 NAA. 0.1% phytic acid could markedly promote the growth of calluses and inhibit callus browning. Multiplication rate of calluses was highest in calluses cultured for 40 - 50 days, and decreased after 27th generation in subculture.
