Ixora Plant (Red and Orange Varieties)
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.
