Bright lights represent some form of happiness and celebration which is why celebrations like the holidays are associated with cheerful lighting. What if there is a way to keep the lights burning bright even after the holidays? Light Bio, a startup biotech company that produces bioluminescent petunias, has made this possible. These glowing petunias are called Firefly Petunia.
Mushroom DNA inserted into petunia flower
The Firefly Petunia is a white flower during the day and provides a soft green glow during nighttime. This is made possible by harvesting the genes of multiple species of luminous mushrooms. Its DNA was then infused with the petunia to make it glow in the dark. This luminous plant can be grown in pots, baskets, or gardens and will need the same care and attention as one would give a normal plant. There is no special food or treatment needed to grow this plant, making it a great addition to one’s home decor for lighting up spaces.
While the Firefly Petunia seems like a pioneer, the first glowing plant was actually a tobacco plant produced in 1986. From there, the research team used firefly genes. The research was not made to offer the glowing plant to the market; instead, it was related to biology. This research has helped in producing the bioluminescent plant today. “This milestone—and the magical experience we are bringing to people across the country—has been decades in the making,” said Light Bio CEO Keith Wood.
The USDA has determined that Light Bio’s Firefly Petunia is safe to grow and breed and is now available for pre-order in the US for $29. Shipment for the product will begin in April 2024. As of this writing, a limited stock of only 50,000 plants is available to be shipped in the US.
YouTube: Light Bio – Firefly Petunia teaser
Photo credit: The images used are owned by Light Bio and have been provided for press usage.
Source: Harold M. Schmeck Jr. (The New York Times)
