Belgium-based researchers have created glow-in-the-dark succulents that would change the way we think about designing lighting systems. To make use of the phosphor’s glow, scientists have embedded this phosphor into plant cells. This entirely new process allows succulents to harness light from their immediate environment and release it back in dazzling tones. This method increases the beauty of plants. Beyond that, it opens up fascinating new opportunities for sustainable, plant-based lighting alternatives.
The infusion process involves introducing phosphor particles, approximately 7 micrometers wide—similar in size to a red blood cell—into various plant species. This process allows the succulents to shine in reds, greens, blues and others. The particles then absorb sunlight or indoor LED light. After only a few minutes of exposure to sunlight, they gradually release that energy providing a radiant glow from the plants lasting up to two hours.
Infusion Process and Characteristics
To create luminescent plants, researchers injected afterglow phosphor particles into a variety of plant species from both succulent and non-succulent families including golden pothos and bok choy. The particles then quickly disperse throughout the fleshy green leaf, creating an internal glow. Remarkably, the diffusion takes just seconds, leading to an entire leaf suddenly appearing as a luminous green light.
Liu, a principal investigator on this study, provided some useful commentary on what the infusion process was like. It takes roughly 10 minutes to prepare each plant. It’s just over 10 yuan, which is about US $1.40 excluding labor. This affordability creates a surprising accessibility for the process even for more aspirational uses.
Additionally, Liu has been intrigued by the way these synthetic materials merge so well with natural plant structures. He explained that it’s amazing because, on the macro-scale, a largely human-made, micro-scale material like smartphone glass can integrate so seamlessly within a plant’s naturally occurring structure. It will be nothing short of incredible!
Applications and Potential Impact
The creation of glow-in-the-dark succulents has resulted in a glowing plant wall made up of 56 succulents. This installation is bright enough to read the text in dark environments and illuminate other things around the work as well. The possible uses for this type of technology are limitless, from ambient, attractive, decorative lighting to improve safety and comfort in pedestrian environments.
“The nature in which they all integrate is practically magical,” said Liu, adding, “It creates a really unique type of functionality. This remarkable feature might make it possible to develop new biodegradable bioluminescent plant lighting systems, integrating solar-powered illumination into our environment in both functional and artistic forms.
Interestingly enough, it’s these smaller, nano-sized particles that are being researched within this project. They move relatively easily throughout the plant, conferring benefits that are unique compared to conventional breeding. Yet, they are almost always less bright than their larger counterparts. This discovery suggests that with more research, we can develop even more productive designs in this emerging field of plant-based lighting technology.
Future Directions
We recently published that work in the journal Matter, DOI 10.1016/j.matt.2025.102370. Scientists from the University of Massachusetts Boston are still investigating what afterglow phosphor particles can do for plants. This study represents huge good news for the future of this technology.
Imagine a future that’s blue and breathable, like the world of Avatar, where phosphorescent vegetation lights up a rich ecosystem, Liu added. He explained how this research can change the aesthetics and performance of research.