There are a large number of persistent organic pollutants(polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons)in the stormwater runoff, and many researchers have studied the removal of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in bioretention cells. However, as the construction of the China’s sponge city has just started, the relevant research has not yet been reported. Herein, the authors present a review of the main removal mechanism of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and the influencing factors in bioretention cells. Firstly, the origin, transfer and source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons are briefly introduced. Secondly, main removal mechanisms in the rhizosphere are elaborated including the soil media adsorption, degradation, plant uptake and stimulation of microbiological activity. Besides, main factors affecting the removal of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, such as the content of carbon, environmental factors and the composition of organic matter are concluded as well. Finally, current gaps for future research are discussed. In this paper, the research progress on the removal of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in bioretention cells abroad can provide scientific support for the optimization of bioretention cells and the efficiency improvement of persistent organic pollutants in our country.