The present invention discloses a fluorescent lamp that includes a cathode electrode covered with an electron-emitting layer composed of a nanotube layer. In a preferred embodiment, the nanotube layer in the fluorescent lamp is a carbon nanotube layer. In another preferred embodiment, the fluorescent lamp further includes a positive electrode formed as a thin film layer covering an external tube surface of the fluorescent tube. In another preferred embodiment, the positive electrode for drawing and directing electrons emitted from the nanotube layer is a net electrode with openings for the free electrons to pass through.