To compare the effects of inoculated or non-inoculated with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi on the steroidal saponin component in root of Paris polyphylla var. yunnanensis. By pot experiments, steroid saponin component in root of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis was determined and compared by HPLC. The results showed there was difference in the effects of different AM fungal on the secondary metabolite steroid saponin in P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis. After elicitors treatment, AM fungal did not change the chemical backgrounds of P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis, but can improve partly the content of chemical compositions in roots. In conclusion, there was selectivity between AM fungal and P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis. Glomus intraradices was the most appropriate strain for inoculation P. polyphylla var. yunnanensis.