Despite the vast research being conducted on the development of biosynthetic procedures, the process is limited owing to the unavailability of modes to control the size and shape of the biosynthesized nanoparticles. In this study, we investigate the size and shape control of gold nanoparticles synthesized by leaf extract of Piper betle (PBE). The effects of various counter ions, temperatures, pH and reaction times on the morphology of gold nanoparticles are also scrutinized. Results from this study indicate that the presence of iodine during biosynthesis leads to the formation of spherical gold nanoparticles and induces the presence of bromine-emanating, truncated nanoplatelets. Spherical nanoparticles are formed with increasing incubation temperature. pH 3 was found to be the optimum for nanoparticles synthesis. The presence of phosphates. sulphates and nitrates increases the productivity of nanoparticles. ICP analysis revealed complete reduction of AuCl(4)(-) ions within 48 h of the reaction. The use of plant extract for rapid synthesis represents a novel and environmentally friendly approach for the fabrication of gold nanoparticles and nanoplatelets, as an alternative to chemical methods. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.