Ixora Chinensis
Contents
Description
Ixora Chinensis, also known as Chinese Ixora, is a flowering shrub native to China and Southeast Asia. It belongs to the Rubiaceae family and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value. The plant has glossy, dark green leaves and produces clusters of small, tubular flowers in shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow. The flowers bloom throughout the year and emit a pleasant fragrance.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Gentianales |
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Genus | Ixora |
Appearance
Ixora Chinensis is a compact shrub that grows up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide. It has shiny, elliptical leaves that are 3-6 inches long and 1-2 inches wide. The plant produces dense clusters of small, tubular flowers that are 1-2 inches long and have four or five petals. The flowers come in shades of pink, red, orange, and yellow and have a pleasant fragrance. The fruit of the plant is a small, round, black or red berry.
Care Guide
Ixora Chinensis requires moderate care to thrive. Here are some tips to help you take care of your plant:
- Water: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the plant with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.
- Soil: Plant Ixora Chinensis in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.
- Sunlight: Place the plant in a location with bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
- Hardiness Zones: Ixora Chinensis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Common Pests & Diseases
Ixora Chinensis is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Here are some common ones:
- Scale insects: These pests attach themselves to the leaves and stems of the plant and suck the sap, causing yellowing and wilting. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Spider mites: These pests create fine webbing on the leaves and cause yellowing and stippling. Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
- Leaf spot: This fungal disease causes brown spots on the leaves and can lead to defoliation. Treat with a fungicide.
- Powdery mildew: This fungal disease appears as a white, powdery coating on the leaves and can cause them to curl and distort. Treat with a fungicide.
Habitat
Ixora Chinensis is native to China and Southeast Asia, where it grows in tropical and subtropical regions. The plant prefers moist, well-draining soil and bright, indirect sunlight.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water my Ixora Chinensis?
A: Water the plant regularly, keeping the soil moist but not waterlogged. Avoid letting the soil dry out completely.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Ixora Chinensis?
A: Ixora Chinensis is hardy in USDA zones 9-11.
Q: What should I do if my plant has scale insects?
A: Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Q: When do the flowers of Ixora Chinensis bloom?
A: The flowers bloom throughout the year.
Related Plants
- Ixora Coccinea
- Ixora Javanica
- Ixora Siamensis
References
- “Ixora chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d718.
- “Ixora chinensis.” The Spruce, www.thespruce.com/ixora-plant-profile-3269663.
- “Ixora chinensis.” University of Florida IFAS Extension, edis.ifas.ufl.edu/fp009.
