This is the dramatic moment a shopkeeper battled strong winds to protect his plants during a storm in China.

Mr Yang tried to shield his lollipop-shaped potted plant as violent gusts battered Xinxiang, Henan.

CCTV footage shows the devoted shopkeeper gripping the greenery's trunk in front of his store while fierce winds swept through the streets on June 15.

Moments later, the shop's blue canopy was ripped loose, forcing Mr Yang to abandon the foliage, causing its trunk to snap.

The large metal-framed shed can be seen being blown directly onto the spot where he had been standing, narrowly missing both him and the plant.

Several potted plants were toppled by the impact, leaving the man visibly shaken as he stood by the entrance of his store.

The region's eastern rainy season typically begins in April and peaks in July and August.