Effect of temperature was studied on shoot cultures ofSwertiachirataat normal(25±10C) and low (170C) temperature levels. Anthocyanin production was stimulated by low temperature and the observations in vitro bore striking similarityto the pigmentation in naturally growing plants of S. chirata in winter season. A decrease in culture room temperature resulted in significant decline in shoot multiplication rate. The observations highlighted the necessity of optimal temperature conditions for efficient in vitro shoot multiplication, production of healthy shoots and probable role in pharmacological property of this important medicinal plant.