Here’s a detailed description of the Ixora flower plant — a tropical favorite known for its vibrant, clustered blooms and lush evergreen foliage.

🌺 Ixora Flower Plant Description
Feature Description
Common Name Ixora, West Indian Jasmine, Jungle Flame, Flame of the Woods
Botanical Name Ixora coccinea (most common species)
Family Rubiaceae
Origin Tropical Asia and India
Plant Type Evergreen shrub or small tree
Height 2–6 feet (can grow taller in ideal tropical conditions)
Growth Habit Dense, bushy, rounded
Leaves Glossy, leathery, dark green; oblong or oval; 3–6 inches long
Flowers Tiny tubular flowers in dense, rounded clusters (called corymbs)
Flower Colors Red, pink, orange, yellow, white (depending on variety)
Blooming Season Blooms year-round in tropical climates; peak in summer
Fragrance Mild to none (varies slightly by variety)
Sunlight Full sun to partial shade (more blooms in full sun)
Water Needs Moderate to high; prefers moist but well-drained soil
Soil Preference Slightly acidic, rich, well-draining soil
Maintenance Low to moderate; responds well to pruning and shaping
🌿 Key Features

Long-Lasting Blooms: Each flower cluster can last several weeks.

Attracts Pollinators: Butterflies and bees are frequent visitors.

Great for Hedges and Borders: Its dense growth and vibrant color make it ideal for ornamental landscaping.

Container Friendly: Smaller varieties grow well in pots or balcony gardens.

🌱 Popular Ixora Varieties
Variety Features
Ixora coccinea Common Red Ixora, compact and popular in gardens
Ixora chinensis More delicate leaves and flowers
Ixora dwarf (Mini Ixora) Compact size, perfect for containers and small spaces
Ixora 'Maui' Known for bright orange blooms
Ixora 'Nora Grant' Large pink flower clusters, robust shrub form
🌼 Basic Care Tips

Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially in hot climates.

Pruning: Trim after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new blooms.

Fertilizer: Use an acid-loving plant fertilizer every 6–8 weeks during growing season.

Pest Watch: Monitor for aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects.

Iron Deficiency: Yellowing leaves with green veins indicate iron chlorosis – treat with iron supplements.

🌸 Special Notes

Cultural Significance: Often used in religious and cultural ceremonies in India and Southeast Asia.

Medicinal Uses (Traditional): Some parts of the plant are used in folk medicine for treating skin ailments and gastrointestinal issues (though not scientifically verified).