Ixora Finlaysoniana

1. Description

Ixora Finlaysoniana is a beautiful evergreen shrub that belongs to the family Rubiaceae. It is native to Malaysia and Thailand, where it grows in tropical rainforests. This plant is commonly known as the Jungle Geranium due to its striking resemblance to the common geranium plant. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are arranged opposite each other on the stem. The flowers are small, tubular, and bright orange-red in color. They are arranged in large, dense clusters at the tips of the branches, making them highly attractive to pollinators.

2. Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukarya
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Angiosperms
Class	Dicotyledons
Order	Gentianales
Family	Rubiaceae
Genus	Ixora
Species	Finlaysoniana

3. Appearance

Ixora Finlaysoniana is a small, compact shrub that can grow up to 3 meters tall. It has a dense, bushy growth habit and can be pruned to maintain its shape. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, with a pointed tip and a smooth margin. They are arranged opposite each other on the stem, and can grow up to 10 cm long and 5 cm wide. The flowers are small, tubular, and bright orange-red in color. They are arranged in dense clusters at the tips of the branches, and can bloom throughout the year.

4. Care Guide

Ixora Finlaysoniana is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is easy to care for. Here are some tips on how to care for this beautiful plant:- Water: Ixora Finlaysoniana prefers moist soil, but can also tolerate short periods of drought. Water the plant deeply once a week, and make sure the soil is well-drained to prevent root rot.- Fertilization: Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer every three months during the growing season (spring and summer). This will help promote healthy growth and flowering.- Soil: Use a well-draining soil mix that is rich in organic matter. Ixora Finlaysoniana prefers slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5).- Sunlight: Ixora Finlaysoniana prefers bright, indirect sunlight. It can also tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flowering.- Hardiness Zones: Ixora Finlaysoniana is hardy in USDA zones 10-11.

5. Common Pests & Diseases

Ixora Finlaysoniana is relatively resistant to pests and diseases, but it may still be susceptible to some common problems. Here are some of the most common pests and diseases that may affect this plant:- Scale insects: These pests can cause yellowing, wilting, and leaf drop. They can be controlled by using a horticultural oil or soap spray.- Mealybugs: These pests can cause stunted growth and yellowing. They can be controlled using a horticultural oil or soap spray.- Leaf spots: These are caused by fungal infections, and can cause brown spots on the leaves. They can be controlled by improving air circulation and reducing humidity.

6. Habitat

Ixora Finlaysoniana is native to Malaysia and Thailand, where it grows in tropical rainforests. It prefers warm, humid conditions, and can grow well in both full sun and partial shade. It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks, and can also be grown in containers.

7. Question and Answer

Q: Can I grow Ixora Finlaysoniana indoors?A: Yes, you can grow Ixora Finlaysoniana indoors as long as it is placed in a bright, sunny spot.Q: How often should I prune my Ixora Finlaysoniana?A: You can prune your Ixora Finlaysoniana once a year, after it has finished blooming. This will help maintain its shape and promote healthy growth.Q: Can I propagate Ixora Finlaysoniana from cuttings?A: Yes, you can propagate Ixora Finlaysoniana from cuttings. Take a 6-inch cutting from the tip of a stem, and dip it in rooting hormone before planting it in a well-draining soil mix.Q: How often should I fertilize my Ixora Finlaysoniana?A: You should fertilize your Ixora Finlaysoniana every three months during the growing season (spring and summer).

9. Related Plants

Here are some related plants that you may be interested in:- Ixora coccinea (common name: Flame of the Woods)- Ixora chinensis (common name: Chinese Ixora)- Ixora javanica (common name: Javanese Ixora)- Ixora undulata (common name: Undulate Ixora)

10. References

– “Ixora finlaysoniana.” Missouri Botanical Garden. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277285.- “Ixora finlaysoniana.” Floridata. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://floridata.com/Plants/Rubiaceae/Ixora+finlaysoniana/1121.- “Ixora finlaysoniana.” Gardening Know How. Accessed August 25, 2021. https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/ixora/growing-ixora-plants.htm.