Populus species are important afforestation tree species characterized by high suitability, rapid growth rate, strong regeneration, good woodiness and relatively small genome. As an important component of biotechnology, tissue culture is widely employed in cultivating populus species, which provide the possibility for their genetic improvement and industrializing propagation. The paper reviewed research overview and application progress, and pointed out problems in inducing process of tissue culture of poplar, so as to provide references for forestry production, landscaping and seedling breeding of poplar.