Phytoremedial Potential of Some Terrestrial Ornamental Plants Against Chromium: A Review

Purpose: Adding unwanted toxic substances to water and soil degrades the quality of food and nutrients. The main cause of pollution on land and water surfaces is industrial discharge. Heavy metals found in industrial effluents include aluminum (Al), zinc (Zn), lead (Pb), chromium (Cr), arsenic (As), mercury (Hg), and cadmium (Cd). Chromium is considered one of the most perilous, poisonous, and carcinogenic heavy metals among them. The continuous use of these metals causes harm to the agro-biological system. Though the physical and chemical approaches are extremely expensive, ineffective and unsuitable for our environment but still are in use for getting rid of heavy metals. Research Method: The current analysis focuses on existing knowledge in the form of research papers available on google scholar and Scopus, issues associated with chromium pollution, such as its environmental, plant development, and human health toxicity as well as its prompt eradication through ornamental plants with high accumulation potential and contamination acceptance. Findings: There is a necessity for green and cost-effective technology for polluted soil and industrial wastewater. Phytoremediation has been considered the most encouraging and suitable green technique to remove contaminants in recent decades due to its low cost and environmental friendliness. Originality/ Value: Ornamental plants appear to be more viable options than edible crops and therapeutic plants as they provide several benefits, including heavy metal pollution removal, environmental embellishment with revenue generation and rare connection in the food chain.