The allelopathic effects of volatile substances from Chamaecyparis obtusa (S. et Z.) Endl. were examined on the germination and seedling growth of some plant species, and on the population growth of some microorganisms. The germination and seedling growth of the receptor plants were suppressed more severely by leaf and fruit essential oils than by those of other parts. Colonial growth of fungi was severely inhibited by essential oils extracted from leaves and fruits. The development of root hairs of the receptor plants was also severely inhibited by the essential oils. The cortical cells at the root tips of Lactuca sativa L. treated with essential oils showed contraction of the cytoplasm, resulting in plasma membranes becoming detached from the cell walls and the cells metamorphosing irregularly. Accumulation of lipid granules inside the contracted cytoplasm and degeneration of mitochondrial cristae were also observed.