Are Glass Flowers Real?

There’s a Facebook post with flowers that look like glass that will have you asking if glass flowers are real. The answer? Yes! But the actual flowers in the post are not real.

Those flowers are either AI generated or glass imitations of the real Diphylleia grayi, also called the Skeleton Flower, which is a very real flower that looks transparent when wet.

The Real Glass Flowers Diphylleia Grayi

Diphylleia grayi, often called the “skeleton flower,” (or glass flower on Facebook) is a botanical marvel with unique delicate petals that turn transparent when exposed to water. Native to the cool, wooded mountains of Japan, China, and the Appalachian region in the United States, this plant thrives in shady, moist conditions.

When dry, the Diphylleia grayi displays white, paper-like petals, but as rain or dew touches them, the petals transform, becoming glass-like and translucent. This change occurs because of the way water interacts with the plant’s cellular structure, allowing light to pass through seamlessly.

See the Before and After Glass Flower Photos Below

Despite its delicate appearance, the plant is hardy, thriving in harsh conditions where other flowers might struggle. While it’s a rare find in most parts of the world, you can find the seeds on Etsy and Amazon.

However, I have not found a place that seems reputable. If you read the reviews on these seeds, it seems many don’t grow, and when they do grow, it’s a different flower. The photos in the listing are also a little suspicious.

If you’re looking to cultivate Diphylleia grayi, be prepared to replicate its natural environment as much as possible. A cool, shady spot with plenty of moisture is ideal.

If anyone does actually have success with the seeds online, please let me know in the comments so I can share a good location to get them.