Chronosequence analysis done of three Hydragric Anthrosols derived from purple sand shale, quaternary red clays and red sandstone, respectively, in hilly regions of South China to explore evolutions of their basic physico-chemical properties. Results show that parent material was the major factor determining sensitivity of clay and SOC to forming processes of the soils and hence apparently evolution of their soil properties. Free ion (Fe_d) was very sensitive to the soil forming processes, and its translocation and transformation was mainly affected by the latter, rather than soil parent material. However silicate iron (Fe_t-Fe_d) was not so sensitive to soil forming processes, and the distribution of total ion (Fe_t) was affected mainly by Fe_d. Loss of clay had some important effects on migration and distribution of soil elements, causing enrichment of SiO₂ and loss of Al₂O₃ in the soils. It must, therefore, be careful in working out some indices to indicate development stages of Hydragric Anthrosols by using the two elements, Al and Si. TiO₂ was relatively stable throughout the soil forming processes and hence could be used to indicate migration rates of other major elements in the paddy soils.