Rapid urbanization and climate change are reshaping landscape design, raising the demand for resilient, low-input plantings. Native ornamental plants—species naturally occurring within a region—offer a science-based alternative to exotic ornamentals dominating contemporary gardens. This review synthesizes ecological and economic evidence published up to 2025 on biodiversity support, pollinator attraction, carbon sequestration, water and maintenance savings, soil stabilization, and cultural value of native ornamentals, with a focus on Indian and global case studies. Findings indicate that native-dominated landscapes consistently outperform exotic counterparts in pollinator richness, faunal abundance, and climate resilience while reducing irrigation and management costs. Strategic policy, nursery development, and design integration are recommended to mainstream indigenous flora in sustainable landscapes.

Keywords: Native plants; sustainable landscaping; biodiversity; pollinator conservation; ecosystem services.