Phytoremediation is considered as the most efficient and prospective approach in removing contaminants in soil and water, and has been developed very quickly during the last years. Considerable studies have been carried out in cleaning up heavy metals and organic contaminants resided in environments. In this paper, we summarized the types of phytoremediation. Processes of the interaction of plants with heavy metals and organic contaminants, their relevant mechanisms and possible impacting factors were also revealed in details. Finally, the application and perspective of phytoremediation in contaminated environments were presented.