Native ornamental plants in India: Diversity and significance

India is one of the world's megadiverse nations, hosting an extraordinary range of native plant species with ornamental value. Their natural adaptation to local climates gives them higher resilience, lower maintenance needs, and better ecological performance than many exotic ornamentals. These species also play key roles in supporting native pollinators, conserving biodiversity, and enhancing ecosystem stability. Despite this richness, the global horticulture industry continues to rely heavily on exotic ornamentals. This review summarizes the diversity of India's native ornamental flora, their ecological, horticultural potential and cultural significance. It also identifies research needs and strategies for integrating these species into sustainable landscapes and climate-resilient urban planning.