Description

Ixora plant

Ixora (Ixora spp.) is a year-round flowering plant that pays off as a highly ornamental variety for gardeners.

• Sometimes called the flame of the woods, Ixora is a member of the Rubiaceae family which also includes coffee, gardenia, firecracker vine, and pentas.
• The large flower clusters come in red, orange, and yellow.

Facts about Ixora Plant

• Ixora shrubs are known for their large corymbs of bright florets.
• Minimal maintenance is needed when growing an Ixora bush.
• The plant has glossy leathery leaves that are oval-shaped and stiff.
• Blooms are clusters of four-petaled florets which can last four to six weeks on the stem.
• Flowers are most prolific in summer but can also appear at other times of the year.
• The best floral displays are produced when grown in full sun situations.
• Well-drained soil and moderate to slightly acidic pH are crucial to growing an Ixora bush. The plant develops chlorosis when installed in alkaline soils.
• Keep the soil evenly moist and prune the plant when it gets unruly.

Plant care

• Plant care is negligible, which makes it useful as part of the low maintenance landscape.
• Annual spring pruning and fertilizing will enhance the plant’s health.
• Some diseases that are common are fungal but can be minimized by suspending overhead watering.
• Water only the root zone to prevent the foliage from getting wet.
• Spider mites and aphids are common but are more of a nuisance than a serious threat. Use an insecticidal oil spray or soap to combat these pests.
• Use a 2- to 3-inch layer of mulch around the root zone to prevent competitive weeds, enhance water retention, and add organic nutrients to the soil.
• When planted in containers, they require re-potting every two to three years.
• Kindly note the plants are extremely tender and will succumb to freezing temperatures.