What is an ornamental plant? Ornamental plants have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to liven up your outdoor living space. Ever been curious about what an ornamental plant is or what makes it stand out from the rest?
Ornamental plants have been grown for aesthetic purposes since ancient times. The Ancient Greeks maintained ornamental gardens for the delight of their citizens, and eagerly acquired exotic plant specimens from far-off lands.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, herbs play an essential role in promoting good health, which often means growing attractive plants as well.
Today, there is a wealth of ornamental plants available that come in all shapes and sizes – from delicate flowering annuals to evergreen shrubs and trees. This article will explore what makes an ornamental plant so special by delving into their characteristics, uses and care tips.
Key Takeaways
- Ornamental plants are primarily grown for their aesthetic appeal and can provide wildlife with food and shelter, as well as medicinal benefits to humans.
- These plants come in all shapes and sizes, from small flowers to large trees, and can have different features such as leaves, scent, fruit, stem and bark that make them stand out from the rest of the garden.
- Ornamental gardening has been practiced for at least 4,000 years and was associated with wealth and status since ancient Greece and Rome.
- Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans were among the earliest known practitioners of ornamental gardening and landscape design.
- Today, there is a wealth of ornamental plants available that come in all shapes and sizes – from delicate flowering annuals to evergreen shrubs and trees.
What Is an Ornamental Plants
Ornamental plants are a type of plant that is primarily grown for its beauty. These plants can be used to create a stunning visual display in gardens, parks, and other outdoor spaces.
Ornamental plants come in all shapes and sizes, from small flowers to large trees. They can also have different features such as leaves, scent, fruit, stem and bark that make them stand out from the rest of the garden.
Ornamental plants are grown for their aesthetic appeal and can provide wildlife with food and shelter, as well as medicinal benefits to humans. They also help in blocking unsightly views from nearby buildings or roads and give outdoor spaces more color and texture.
History of Ornamental Plants
The history of ornamental gardening dates back to at least 4,000 years of human civilization. Ancient Egyptians were some of the earliest known practitioners of ornamental horticulture and landscape design.
Tomb paintings from around 1500 BC depict lotus ponds surrounded by symmetrical rows of acacias and palms, indicating that the Egyptians had an appreciation for the beauty of nature and a desire to cultivate it in their gardens.
Ornamental gardening has been associated with wealth and status since ancient Greece, where professional gardeners created elaborate designs with exotic plants. The Romans developed this art even further by introducing different plants from around the world and creating public parks for recreation and religious ceremonies.
Over time, ornamental gardening became increasingly inventive with the development of topiary art, terrace gardens, rock gardens, and water features.
Examples of Ornamentals
Ornamental plants, such as daffodils, Lilium Stagazer lilies, and Rocky-Mountain Iris, are a great way to add beauty and color to gardens or landscapes. They can provide stunning visuals and fragrant aromas that transform outdoor areas into inviting oases.
In addition to their visual appeal, ornamental plants also provide numerous benefits for the environment. They help reduce air pollution by trapping dust particles in their leaves and stems, while also providing food sources for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies.
Ornamental plants can also help improve soil quality by adding organic matter as they decompose over time. Finally, ornamental plants can act as natural barriers against wind and noise pollution, creating peaceful outdoor spaces for people
The Horticultural Trade and Ornamental Plant Invasions in Britain
A study published in 2006 examined the horticultural trade’s contribution to the introduction and spread of invasive species in Britain.
The authors of this study found that a large number of non-native species had been introduced through the horticultural trade, with many becoming established and spreading across Britain’s landscape, due to lack of regulation. They highlighted a need for better industry regulation to prevent introductions of potentially damaging species.