Somatic embryos and subsequently, plants have been obtained from cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) tissue cultures in several independent laboratories. Responding cultivars included representatives of acala, high plains and delta type cottons. Common elements among the different tissue culture systems to be discussed include: 1) the requirement for an initial identification of an embryogenic callus type; 2) the selective subculture to perpetuate the desired callus type; and 3) the low frequency, of the occurrence of embryogenic callus.