Tissue specific localization of soluble secondary metabolites was demonstrated in ectomycorrhizae and uninfected roots of Picea abies, Larix decidua, Pinus sylvestris and Abies alba. Compounds were analysed by HPLC and by histochemical methods. Specific distribution and age-dependent changes were observed with several metabolites. For catechin corresponding patterns were found within the cortex of all investigated conifers. Levels of this metabolite were highest within the apical cortex cells and decreased on aging of the tissue. In spruce contents of catechin showed evident seasonal changes. Stilbene glucosides were detected within the pericycle of spruce roots and as well the phloem tissue of larch with levels increasing during root development. In larch two anthocyanins accumulated in the calyptra. In older tissues of larch roots larixin-glucosid and quercetin-rhamnosid were detected, the latter with highest levels in the phloem tissue. For cell wall bound ferulic acid increasing levels could be found concomitant with the development of the root.