CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeat) is a new genomic editing technology in recent years, which is concerned for easier manipulation, higher targeting efficiency and wider range of applications. However, the research reports about the application of CRISPR/Cas system in bacteria and animals are more than in plants. In this review, the principle, structure, working mechanism and the progress of CRISPR/Cas system in plants were introduced in order to provide foundation to increase crop yield and cultivate resistant breeds by CRISPR/Cas system.