Imagine plants that showcase bright white blooms by day and glow fluorescent green by night. Well, it's nothing short of a reality for home gardeners across the US now that Light Bio's Firefly Petunia is available at in-person retailers across the country.
These glowing plants are bioluminescent petunias, bioengineered by scientists at Light Bio. You can now not only buy the Firefly Petunias on the Light Bio website, but they are also available to purchase in store at more than 200 US retailers. This comes after online sales proved the popularity of these remarkable plants since their release last year.
Keith Wood, CEO of Light Bio, says this expansion is the start of bringing bioluminescence into daily home life: 'My work in developing bioluminescence technologies is well known in the scientific community, but virtually invisible to the general public. It’s been incredibly rewarding to bridge that gap - transforming a technical innovation into something people can experience and enjoy in their everyday lives.'
The science behind the glow
Just like AI in gardening, glowing petunias at first seem like something of the future. But, US gardeners can now go along to a selected retailer to pick one up for themselves for $29.99. The plants are still available online, too, selling for $39.99 on Light Bio's website.
Their fluorescence is made possible by using isolated genes from different species of luminous mushrooms. This DNA is inserted in the petunias to boost the luminous appearance they already subtly have as a result of their plant metabolism.
'I've been studying bioluminescence since 1983. Initially, it served as a powerful model system for exploring early ideas in protein design. Over time, it evolved into a widely used tool in life science and pharmaceutical research,' Keith explains. 'With Light Bio, we’ve taken a more imaginative turn - using this technology to create beauty and wonder in the world around us,' he adds.
The Firefly Petunias were even named one of Time Magazine's best inventions in 2024, so it's no wonder they're the latest garden lighting idea gardeners are flocking to get their hands on.
As for plant care, you can keep these petunias blooming in the same way regular petunias; by deadheading, providing lots of sun, and keeping their soil evenly moist.
Keith Wood has over 30 years of experience in research and development, primarily in the biotech industry. Keith started his career at Promega Corporation in 1990 and had various roles, including Head of Research, R&D Director, and R&D Group Manager. At Promega Corporation, he also served as an Industrial Fellow. In 2019, Keith joined Light Bio, Inc. as the Chief Executive Officer.
Essentials for glowing petunia care
Grow petunias in pots by elevating them to cascade in your yard. These planters are made from natural coconut fiber.
Keep your petunias at a happy moisture level by using this moisture meter to identify when it's time to water them.
Deadhead petunias with these pruning shears. The steel blade ensures a clean cut, encouraging new growth.
FAQs
Can you grow glowing petunias indoors?
The Firefly Petunias can be grown indoors. Light Bio provide the following advice on their website:
'Petunias can be grown indoors if placed in a sunny spot. They flourish under long summer days, preferring at least six hours of direct sunlight.'
A south-facing windowsill would therefore be an idea spot for indoor glowing petunias.
Glowing petunias could become one of the biggest garden lighting trends of 2025. If you're planning to incorporate them in your yard, don't forget to cut back petunias regularly for repeat blooms through summer.
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