Ixora coccinea, commonly known as Jungle Geranium or Flame of the Woods, is a popular and beautiful flowering shrub from the Rubiaceae family. Native to the tropical regions of Asia, including India and Sri Lanka, Ixora coccinea is widely cultivated in many parts of the world for its stunning and vibrant clusters of flowers. It is a favorite choice for gardens, landscapes, and as a potted plant, adding a splash of color and elegance to outdoor spaces.
Landscape Use:
Ixora coccinea is commonly grown in gardens and landscapes for its colorful flowers and lush foliage.
It can be used as a specimen plant, accent plant, or planted in groups to create a stunning and vibrant display.
Jungle Geranium is also suitable for hedges, borders, or foundation plantings, providing both beauty and privacy to outdoor spaces.
Overall, Ixora coccinea (Jungle Geranium) is a striking and versatile shrub that brings a burst of color and tropical charm to gardens and landscapes. Its stunning flowers, coupled with its compact growth habit, make it a favorite among gardeners and landscaping enthusiasts seeking to add vibrancy and beauty to their outdoor space.
Here’s a general description of Ixora coccinea (Jungle Geranium):
Plant Characteristics:
Flowers: Ixora coccinea produces showy, small, tubular flowers that are arranged in dense, rounded clusters called corymbs. The flowers come in various shades of red, orange, pink, yellow, or white, depending on the cultivar. Each cluster can consist of multiple inflorescences, creating a profusion of color when in full bloom. The flowers are highly attractive to butterflies and hummingbirds, making them a valuable plant for pollinators.
Leaves: The leaves of Jungle Geranium are opposite, simple, and glossy. They are dark green in color and have an elliptical to lanceolate shape.
Growth Habit: Ixora coccinea is a compact and bushy shrub that can reach a height of 3 to 6 feet (about 1 to 2 meters). It has a well-branched growth habit and dense foliage.
Cultural Requirements:
Light: Ixora coccinea thrives in full sunlight to partial shade. It prefers at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and flowering. In regions with hot afternoon sun, partial shade during the hottest part of the day may be beneficial.
Temperature: This plant is well-adapted to warm and tropical climates. It is sensitive to frost and should be protected from freezing temperatures.
Watering: Jungle Geranium requires regular watering, especially during hot and dry periods. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Proper drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
Soil: The plant grows best in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils.
Fertilization: Regular fertilization with a balanced, diluted liquid fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summI
