Ornamentals

Definition of Ornamentals

Ornamentals are plants cultivated primarily for decorative, aesthetic, or landscaping purposes rather than for food or industrial use. This category includes flowers, shrubs, trees, foliage plants, and grasses used in gardens, parks, streetscapes, interiors, and public spaces.

Ornamentals are carefully selected for colour, form, fragrance, texture, and seasonal interest, and their cultivation often involves specialised horticultural practices, including controlled environments, pruning, fertilisation, and pest management. The term encompasses both cut flowers for display and potted or landscape plants for long-term growth.

Why Ornamentals Matter

Ornamentals matter because they provide environmental, social, and economic benefits beyond traditional agriculture:

Aesthetic and cultural value – Enhancing homes, urban spaces, and public areas
Economic contribution – Driving horticultural businesses, nurseries, florists, and landscaping services
Mental health and wellbeing – Associated with reduced stress, improved mood, and greater connection to nature
Environmental support – Offering habitats and food for pollinators and beneficial insects
Urban sustainability – Contributing to green infrastructure, air quality improvement, and temperature regulation

As cities expand and interest in sustainable landscaping grows, ornamentals play an increasingly vital role in green and livable spaces.

Key Principles of Ornamental Plant Production

Species and Variety Selection – Choosing plants for climate suitability, aesthetic appeal, and growth habit
Growing Environment Management – Controlling light, temperature, soil or growing media, and irrigation
Nutrient and Water Management – Providing balanced fertilisation and efficient water supply
Pest and Disease Management – Applying integrated strategies to maintain plant health
Pruning and Shaping – Managing form, size, and flower production
Sustainability Practices – Minimising chemical use, conserving resources, and promoting biodiversity
Post-Harvest Handling – Ensuring longevity and quality of cut flowers and potted plants

Related Terms

Floriculture
Horticulture
Nursery Plants
Landscaping Plants
Cut Flowers
Greenhouse Production

Useful Resources on Ornamentals

Explore these authoritative resources to learn more about ornamental plants, floriculture, and sustainable horticultural practices:

International Society for Horticultural Science (ISHS)– Scientific research and publications on floriculture and ornamental crops.
Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)– Practical guidance on plant cultivation, greenhouse management, and ornamental gardening.
American Floral Endowment (AFE)– Research funding, education, and best practices for the floriculture industry.
UK Horticulture Statistics – GOV.UK– Official data on ornamental horticulture production in the UK.
Union Fleurs- Representing, promoting and defending the interests of the international floricultural trade.
The Floriculture Research Alliance- brings together university researchers and leading horticulture companies to collaborate on science-based solutions for sustainable floriculture.