Ixora Dwarf

Description

1. Botanical Overview:

• Botanical Name: Ixora coccinea (Dwarf varieties)
• Common Names: Dwarf Ixora, Jungle Flame, West Indian Jasmine
• Family: Rubiaceae
• Type: Evergreen, tropical flowering shrub

2. Origin & Distribution

• Native To: Tropical Asia, especially India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia.

• Widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions around the world.

3. Physical Characteristics

• Size: Compact and bushy, typically grows 1–3 feet tall (smaller than regular Ixora).

• Leaves: Small, glossy, leathery leaves; oval-shaped and arranged opposite each other.

• Flowers: Small, star-shaped flowers in dense clusters (called corymbs); available in red, pink, orange, yellow, and white.

• Flowering Season: Blooms throughout the year in tropical climates; peak bloom in summer and monsoon.

4. Growing Conditions

• Light: Requires full sun to partial shade; more sun means better flowering.

• Soil: Prefers slightly acidic, well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

• Watering: Needs moderate watering; soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged.

• Temperature: Thrives in 20–30°C (68–86°F); sensitive to frost.

• Humidity: Loves high humidity.

5. Maintenance & Care

• Pruning: Light pruning helps maintain shape and encourages more blooms.

• Fertilization: Benefits from acidic fertilizers every 2–4 weeks during the growing season.

• Pests/Diseases: Can be affected by aphids, mealybugs, scale insects, and leaf spot if overwatered.

6. Uses & Benefits

• Ornamental Use: Popular for borders, hedges, container planting, and tropical gardens.

• Attracts Pollinators: Flowers attract butterflies and bees.

• Cultural Symbolism: In some regions, Ixora flowers are used in religious offerings.

7. Special Notes

• The dwarf variety is especially suited for small gardens, balcony pots, and decorative edging.

• Best performance is seen when grown in slightly acidic conditions (pH 5–6).