Overview

• Researchers at South China Agricultural University injected strontium aluminate phosphor microparticles into leaves to produce multicolor phosphorescence.
• Optimizing particle size to about 7 micrometers enabled rapid spread through tissue, with Echeveria 'Mebina' delivering the strongest, most uniform glow.
• After minutes of charging under sun or LEDs, treated succulents glowed in red, green, or blue for up to about two hours, and a 56-plant wall lit nearby text and faces in tests.
• The team reported roughly $1.40 in materials and about 10 minutes of preparation per plant, and said they have patented the injection technique.
• Coverage highlights unresolved issues including fading over time, unknown long-term effects on plant health, and potential disposal pollution that researchers say require further testing.