Ornamental plants are termed as such by virtue of their leaves, flowers, fruit, bark and scent, and are grown for the viewing pleasure of gardeners and visitors. In some countries, the growing of ornamental plants can contribute to the national economy. For instance, in Nigeria, a West-African country with an economy based on agriculture, ornamental plant production increases yearly and has created jobs throughout the country.

The hibiscus, a shrub which has an early germination, is a member of the Malcavacea family. This ornamental plant not only bears aesthetically pleasing flowers but also has the practical function of boundary demarcation. The hibiscus is a very resistant plant; it thrives in times of snow, drought, ice, flood and in poor soil.

Ixora is a shrub from the larger Rubiaceae family. There are around 400 sub-species of this variety, and it is native to tropical and sub-tropical climates. Varying in leaf and plant size, colour and height, the ixora blooms all year long, although hotter weather maximises its beauty.

This tree, grown in subtropical environments, is an ornamental plant with a strong fragrance emitted by its greenish-white flowers. The flowers, which also come in yellow, open up at night, and it is especially then that the scent is released. The plant bears a poisonous white berry; notwithstanding, it serves as food for some caterpillars. Queen of night, also known as night blooming jessamine, bears the botanical name Cestrum nocturnum and is a popular choice in landscaping.

The dumb cane is a houseplant that can withstand low light intensities. The genus Dieffenbachia owes its colloquial name to the fact that you become speechless upon ingestion of the stem. The leaves are dark green with an inside pattern of lighter green streaks.

Golden palms have jagged-edged bright yellow leaves, while their flowers come in shades of pink. These plants grow in patches that can spread for several meters, and grow from 24 to 30 inches high. The plant's botanical name is Petasites frigidus var. palmatus, and its flowers first appear in late winter to early spring.