An efficient somatic embryogenesis and plant regeneration protocol was developed for Schisandra chinensis Baill, using embryogenic cell suspensions and optimized media conditions. Friable embryogenic callus was induced from cotyledonary leaf and hypocotyl explants of 7 days old seedlings on MS agar medium supplemented with 1.0 to $4.0;mg;l^{-1}$ of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D). Fast growing and well dispersed embryogenic cell suspensions were developed within two months when embryogenic calli were transferred to MS liquid medium containing $1.0;mg;l^{-1};2,4-D$. One third strength of MS medium was the best for both overall growth and development of somatic embryos in liquid culture. Over 3400 viable somatic embryos were produced from each 150 ml flask with an initial cell density of 30 mg in 30 ml medium. Germinated somatic embryos developed in liquid medium converted into plantlets after transferred to half-strength MS semi-solid medium. Approximately 90% of the converted plantlets were successfully transplanted to soil and grew into fertile plants.