EXHIBIT 23.1


                    CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS

As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation by
reference in this Form 8-K of our report dated December 19, 2000, included in
the Exelixis, Inc. Form S-8 relating to the "Options Assumed by Exelixis, Inc.
Originally Granted Under the Agritope, Inc. 1997 Stock Award Plan" and the
previously filed Form S-8 Registration Statement File No. 333-35862.

                                                   /s/ Arthur Andersen LLP

Portland, Oregon
December 19, 2000