Abstract Callus initiation and safrole production from true laurel were studied. Young leaves with midrib were surface sterilized and used for callus induction. Leaf explants were cut and cultured on half-strength Murashige and Skoog (MS) basal medium supplemented with different concentrations and combinations of auxin (NAA) and cytokinin (BA) under light condition for 12 weeks. It was found that explants culturing on the media without NAA were unable to form any calli while the highest callus formation was initiated on half-strength MS basal medium consisted of 0.5 mg/l NAA and 0.5 mg/l BA. After color test was performed via Marquis Reagent, the results indicated that all induced calli could produce safrole as their cells and tissues turned into dark violet.