There are around 560 different species belonging to the Ixora genus, which comes from the Rubiaceae plant family, or the coffee family.
Ixora At A Glance
The plants within this genus are shrubs or trees which produce fantastic flowers, as well as eye-catching foliage which features a glossy sheen.
These plants hail from tropical and subtropical parts of the world, and are grown ornamentally both in the garden as focal points and hedging, and bonsai trees.
In some parts of Asia, Ixora is used as part of traditional medicine to help treat colic, fever, tuberculosis and stomach complaints.
Ixora Flower Symbolism
Flowers produced on an Ixora shrub signify desire and passion.
Ixora Name Origin
The genus name has two possible origins. The first is from Sanskrit, Ikvana, which is a Malaysian deity.
It could also stem from Iswara, which is a Malabar deity.
The common names, flame of the woods, and jungle flame, refer to the vivid color of the flowers, which are often bright orange or crimson, and almost resemble flames from afar.
Ixora Growing Requirements
Ixora shrubs and trees are hardy in USDA zones 9 through to 11 (see also How To Grow Ixora Coccinea), and are perfect focal points for adding a tropical touch into your garden.
They flower in spring and summer, and depending on the species, these blooms may be white, pink, yellow, orange, or red, with red being the most widespread.
The height of an Ixora is dictated by the species, but at most they will reach 7 feet tall.
Ixora plants prefer full sunlight, but they will also grow in partial shade.
They require plenty of drainage, preferably in damp, acidic soil. If the soil is too alkaline, this will cause the leaves to turn an ugly yellow, and the plant’s health will suffer.
Provided that the soil stays moist, these plants don’t need a lot of watering, and similarly, the amount of attention they need from you isn’t much.
