Flame of the Woods, Jungle flame, West Indian jasmine, Scarlet ixora
Ixora coccinea is a compact, evergreen shrub native to South India and Sri Lanka, prized for its dome-shaped clusters of small tubular flowers in blazing reds, oranges, pinks, and yellows. Glossy, leathery leaves form dense, tidy mounds ideal for hedges, foundation plantings, and containers in warm climates. Blooming occurs most of the year in the tropics, peaking in heat and high light when moisture is consistent. An acid-loving species, Ixora struggles in alkaline, calcareous soils, often showing lime-induced iron chlorosis; keeping the root zone acidic prevents yellowing. Flowers are rich in nectar and attract butterflies and other pollinators. Plants respond well to tip pinching and post-flush pruning to maintain compact form and encourage repeat flowering. In cooler regions, it adapts to bright indoor or patio culture if kept warm, humid, and evenly moist. Propagation is commonly by semi-hardwood cuttings with bottom heat and high humidity.
Water deeply when the top 2–3 cm (about 1 inch) of soil dries, then allow excess to drain freely. Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; Ixora dislikes both drought and soggy roots. In hot, bright conditions, container plants may need watering 2–4 times weekly; reduce in cool, low-light periods. Use rainwater if tap water is alkaline. Ensure a free-draining, acidic medium and avoid letting saucers hold water, which promotes root rot.
Provide full sun to bright light for best flowering: 6–8 hours of direct sun outdoors is ideal. In very hot, dry climates, offer light afternoon shade to prevent leaf edge scorch. Indoors, place near a south or east window with several hours of sun, or supplement with strong grow lights (PPFD ~200–400 μmol/m²/s). Plants grown in shade become leggy and bloom poorly; acclimate gradually when moving from shade to sun to avoid leaf burn.
Feed during active growth with an acid-forming fertilizer (e.g., azalea/camellia blends) low to moderate in phosphorus. Apply a slow-release product every 3–4 months, or use a balanced liquid (e.g., 3-1-2 or 2-1-2 ratio) at half strength every 2–4 weeks. Include chelated iron and micronutrients (Mn, Mg) to prevent chlorosis. Avoid lime and hard, alkaline water; incorporate elemental sulfur or peat to maintain soil pH near 5.0–6.0, and flush pots occasionally to prevent salt buildup.
Ideal temperatures are 18–32°C (65–90°F) with high humidity. Protect from temperatures below 12–13°C (54–55°F); brief dips to 10°C (50°F) may cause leaf drop and flowering pause, and frost is fatal. Provide warm nights and avoid cold drafts. In extreme heat, plants tolerate 35°C+ if humidity and soil moisture are adequate. Outdoor culture is best in frost-free zones (USDA 10–12); elsewhere, grow in containers to overwinter indoors under warm, bright conditions.
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