Chinese Ixora
ixora chinensis
Also known as: ["Chinese ixora","Ixora coccinea"]
Overview
A tropical evergreen shrub known for its vibrant, clustered flowers and glossy foliage.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Gentianales |
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Genus: | Ixora |
| Botanical Name: | Ixora chinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Flowers
- Suitable Location: indoor or outdoor pot in a sheltered, bright location
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"15–30°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"9–11"}
- Misting: every 2–3 days to maintain humidity, especially in dry climates
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, slightly acidic potting mix with organic matter.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Light pruning can be done anytime; major pruning in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; remove up to one-third of the plant if overgrown, but avoid heavy pruning during flowering
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Bright indirect light for 6–8 hours daily; can tolerate some direct morning sun but avoid harsh afternoon sun.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct light to prevent scorching; place in a spot with filtered light if outdoors; indoors, use a south-facing window with sheer curtains.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant weekly for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct afternoon sun exposure.
Watering
every 5–7 days, allowing soil to dry slightly between waterings
Maintain consistent moisture without waterlogging; avoid letting the soil dry out completely; water early in the day to reduce fungal risk.
Soil
well-draining, acidic potting mix with peat moss
pH: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic).
Ensure pots have drainage holes; avoid heavy clay soils; check pH regularly if growing in containers.
Temperature
Prefers 65–85°F (18–29°C); thrives in warm, humid conditions; sensitive to cold drafts and frost.
Avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain consistent warmth; protect from cold drafts and direct heat sources.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during active growth with a balanced liquid fertilizer
Fertilize after watering to prevent root burn; flush soil occasionally to prevent salt buildup; avoid over-fertilizing to prevent leaf burn.
Propagation
Methods
Stem cuttings in spring or early summer.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in moist medium.
- Cover with plastic to maintain humidity.
Best Time: Spring or early summer when the plant is actively growing.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (75–85°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Well-draining mix of peat, perlite, and sand.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster root development.
Timeline
Roots develop in 4–8 weeks; new growth appears in 2–3 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, plastic wrap, misting bottle.
Quick Tips
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged; provide bottom heat for faster rooting; avoid direct sunlight during rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean, sharp tools; make cuts just above a leaf node or bud; remove dead or crossing branches.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, encourage bushier growth, and remove spent flowers or damaged stems.
Tools
Pruning shears, sterilizing solution, gloves.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead or damaged growth; shape the plant; remove spent flowers; clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before the growing season begins.
Pot Size
Choose a pot 1–2 inches larger in diameter than the current one.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a new pot with fresh soil; water thoroughly after repotting.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the pot; necessary to refresh soil and provide space for growth.
Checklist
Select appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil mix; trim roots if necessary; water after repotting; place in appropriate light.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture daily; water deeply at the base; ensure proper drainage; adjust frequency with seasons.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water deeply at the root zone until water drains from the bottom; ensure excess water drains away to prevent standing moisture; water in the morning to allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry; reduce frequency in winter to prevent root rot.
Soil Improvement
Add perlite or sand for drainage; incorporate peat moss for acidity; use a cactus or azalea mix as a base.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf drop, yellowing, stunted growth, or bud drop in cold; wilting, scorching, or leaf burn in excessive heat.
Cold Stress
Slows growth, causes leaf drop, and can lead to root rot if soil remains cold and wet.
Solution: Move to a warmer location; protect from drafts; reduce watering in cool conditions; use a space heater if necessary.
Hot Stress
Leaves may wilt, scorch, or drop; flowers may fade quickly; growth may slow due to excessive transpiration.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat; increase humidity with misting or a humidifier; water more frequently but avoid waterlogging.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; dilute properly; fertilize during active growth; flush soil periodically.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength every 4–6 weeks during growing season (spring/summer); reduce or stop in fall/winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Slightly ToxicCats may experience mild gastrointestinal discomfort if they consume the berries of Ixora chinensis. The saponins present can lead to mild irritation of the digestive system.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Slightly ToxicThe berries of Ixora chinensis can cause mild gastrointestinal upset in dogs due to the presence of saponins. The effects are typically not severe unless large quantities are consumed.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Slightly ToxicIxora chinensis contains small amounts of saponins, which can cause mild gastrointestinal distress if ingested in significant quantities. The physiological impact is generally limited to irritation of the digestive tract.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Ixora chinensis toxic to pets?
A: Yes, it is mildly toxic to dogs and cats if ingested.
Q: How often should I water Ixora chinensis?
A: Water when the top inch of soil is dry, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
Q: Does Ixora chinensis require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade, needing at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Rubiaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 5–7 days, allowing soi |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
