Abstract： Objective To evaluate the feasibility of collagen complex gradient tricalcium phosphate composite scaffolds for cartilage tissue engineering by observing the compatibility and adhesion of chondrocytes. Methods High purified chondrocytes from knee joints of 8-week-old New Zealand rabbits were obtained by enzyme digestion, then the chondrocytes of the third generation were cultured combined with collagen complex gradient tricalcium phosphate composite scaffolds in vitro.Chondrocyte morphology, collagen Ⅱ expression, chondrogenesis, the compatibility of chondroeyte and scaffolds were evaluated with inverted microscope, HE staining, scanning electron microscope (SEM) and immunohistochemistry.Results By SEM, the scaffold had regular, porous architecture of communicated microholes.The average pore diameter was 100-150 μm.Observation revealed good hydrophilicity of the composite scaffold.The chondrocytes adhered to the surface, proliferated and migrated into the inside of the scaffold.Chondrocytes attached to wall of microholes of the scaffold had largely maintained morphology and could secrete the extracellular matrix on the porous scaffold.Conclusions Collagen complex gradient tricalcium phosphate composite scaffold possesses good cellular compatibility.