China - August 27, 2025 Scientists have developed glow-in-the-dark succulents that recharge in sunlight, offering a new way to illuminate spaces naturally. Reported in the journal Matter on August 27, researchers injected light-emitting compounds into plants, allowing them to shine in multiple colors and rival a small night light at their brightest. “Picture the world of Avatar, where glowing plants light up an entire ecosystem,” said Shuting Liu of South China Agricultural University. “We wanted to make that vision possible using materials we already work with in the lab. Imagine glowing trees replacing streetlights.” Unlike previous attempts using genetic engineering, the team relied on afterglow phosphor particles—similar to those in glow-in-the-dark toys—that absorb light and release it slowly. Particles sized around 7 micrometers were small enough to travel through leaf tissues but bright enough to glow. The researchers tested several plant species, including succulents, golden pothos, and bok choy. Only the succulents produced a strong glow, thanks to their uniform leaf channels. After a few minutes of sunlight or LED exposure, the plants glowed for up to two hours. By using different phosphors, the team created green, red, and blue glowing succulents. A wall of 56 modified succulents could illuminate nearby objects enough to read by. Liu said each plant takes about 10 minutes to prepare and costs just over 10 yuan (about $1.4), excluding labor. The glowing succulents’ light fades over time, and researchers continue to study the long-term safety of the materials. The method could offer sustainable lighting for pathways, gardens, or indoor décor, with potential to expand beyond succulents. “I just find it incredible that an entirely human-made, micro-scale material can come together so seamlessly with the natural structure of a plant,” Liu said. “The way they integrate is almost magical. It creates a special kind of functionality.”