This research uses CiteSpace, the software tool for mapping knowledge domain, to sort out the relevant literature of CSSCI and core periodicals on the CNKI database for the aim of providing a more objective and scientific reference for the research in this field. The research shows that domestic scholars mostly discuss the connotation of ecological capital from the perspectives such as fundamental concepts, capital attributes and constitutive elements and etc.; the derivative process of ecological capitalization theory is explored from the perspective of ecological resource capitalization and ecological assets capitalization; the theoretical value of ecological capital is studied with the focus on ecosystem service, the solution of ecological crisis and the strategic concept of building a beautiful China; and the practical application of ecological capital are researched from the perspectives of eco-compensation, ecological capital operation, and relevant theories in specific fields. These research hot spots are integrated into various stages of research in this field, and present an evolutionary path of “discussing basic connotations and derived processes, exploring theoretical values, and studying practical applications”. With the advent of the new era, experts and scholars should strengthen the research on the construction and improvement of the macro ecological capital accounting system and the derivative path of ecological capitalization at the micro level, thus providing a new research perspective for the high-quality development of China's economy.