The Cambridge University Botanic Garden in the United Kingdom has launched a new artificial intelligence–powered exhibition that enables visitors to communicate directly with plants. Called “Talking Plants,” this innovative experience invites visitors to explore the botanical world more closely while rethinking humanity’s relationship with nature. Officials describe the exhibition as a global first in plant interaction and aim to make learning about nature more engaging.
As part of the exhibition, 20 different plants can interact with visitors through distinct names and personality traits. Each plant in the garden has been assigned a unique character. For example, Jade, a vine in the tropical plants section, is presented as energetic and humorous, while the strongly scented Titan Arum appears as “Titus Junior,” embodying a more dramatic and direct personality. Other interactive plants include Tumbo, a Welwitschia species described as “stubborn and witty,” the endangered St Helena Ebony, and the orchid known as the “Dancing Lady Orchid.”
Visitors interact with the plants by scanning QR codes placed next to them. After scanning, a chat interface opens where visitors can ask questions in written or spoken form. The AI system provides information about plant evolution, ecological roles, biological characteristics, and cultural significance. With multilingual support, the system also enables communication in multiple languages. Beyond information sharing, the exhibition offers interactive experiences such as guided meditation sessions with plants and nature-themed quizzes.
Sam Brockington, curator of the exhibition and Professor of Evolution at the University of Cambridge, emphasizes that the project is not intended to replace human expertise. According to Brockington, the goal is to spark curiosity about plant life and make learning about nature more compelling. The initiative is also expected to raise awareness of global challenges such as biodiversity loss and environmental change, highlighting the importance of strengthening human connections with nature.
Gal Zanir, co-founder and CEO of Nature Perspectives, the company behind the exhibition, states that the project introduces a new approach to human–nature relationships. According to Zanir, the technology supports not only acquiring knowledge about nature but also learning with and interacting with it. Visitors therefore experience plants not merely as passive objects of observation but as living entities capable of communication.
Addressing concerns about potential inaccuracies in AI-generated responses, the project team explains that the system was trained using scientific data selected by expert ecology researchers and that all content is carefully reviewed to ensure scientific accuracy.
The University of Cambridge previously implemented a similar initiative in 2024 at its Museum of Zoology, allowing visitors to interact with exhibited animals through artificial intelligence. The new botanic garden exhibition extends this approach to the plant world, further advancing the interaction between nature and technology.
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