A green procedure for the synthesis of xanthenedione derivatives (3) through InCl3·4H2O-promoted condensation of aldehydes (1) and 5,5-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexanedione (2) in ionic liquids is described in this paper. This novel method has such advantages as operational simplicity and environmental benignancy together with enhanced atom utilization. Moreover, the reaction media and the catalyst can be recovered conveniently and reused effectively for at least six times.Key words: ionic liquid, xanthenedione derivatives, indium trichloride, green synthesis.