What type of plants are classified as ornamental?

Ornamental plants are specifically cultivated for their aesthetic appeal, which includes attributes such as beauty, color, and design in landscapes and garden settings. These plants are chosen for their visual contribution to an environment, providing decorations and enhancing the overall perception of space. The definition aligns with the cultivation goals of ornamental gardening, where the intent is to create pleasing visual experiences rather than practical benefits like food production or medicinal use.

In contrast to ornamental plants, those that are grown primarily for food focus on producing crops that can be consumed, and those used for medicinal purposes prioritize health benefits over visual appeal. Plants unsuitable for a specific climate may struggle to thrive and do not fit the ornamental category due to their lack of adaptability, which diminishes their aesthetic value in a garden setting.