Response of the rhizomes of Cymbidium sinense to four carbohydrates, sucrose, glucose, fructose and lactose, was compared to determine the most suitable carbon source for the efficient in vitro multiplication. Lactose had negative effect on morphogenesis. Sucrose was less effective on plantlet development than glucose and fructose. Glucose at the concentration of 5% was considered to be the best carbon source that may bring the maximum number of plantlets.