Ixora coccinea (Flame-of-the-Woods): Tropical Shrub for Sun and Humidity

Botanical Name: Ixora coccinea

'Nora Grant' Pink Plant for Sale

Big, bright flower clusters give this beautiful tropical common names: Flame-of-the-Woods and Jungle Geranium.

Cultivars now available with blooms in pinks, oranges, reds. Each star-like flower has 4 petals up to 1 in (2.5 cm) wide—not impressive alone, but dozens together pack sizzling color on this compact shrub.

Glossy leaves grow in opposite pairs on upright stems. Prune after flowering to keep compact.

This magnificent Ixora shrub prefers sunshine, warm temps, and high humidity like its native tropical habitat.

No Blooms? Ixoras that don't bloom lack light. Put in a warm greenhouse or sunroom. Depending on location, moving to patio for summer may be ideal.

High Humidity Is a Must Use a pebble tray or room humidifier. Brown leaf edges and shriveling buds = air too dry.

Repot in spring, moving up 1 pot size for more room. Use drainage holes to prevent soggy soil.

Ixora coccinea Plant Care Quick Reference

Origin: India and Sri Lanka

Height: Up to 2 ft (30 cm)

Light: Full sun to bright light

Water: Water thoroughly, allow medium to dry slightly before watering again. Use rainwater warmed to room temp—cold water shocks this tropical native. Water less in winter.

Humidity: Moderate to high. If below 50%, use pebble tray or room humidifier.

Temperature: Warm year-round (75°F / 24°C) with min 60°F (16°C)

Soil: Peat moss-based mix or African violet potting mix

Fertilizer: Feed every 2 weeks summer with balanced liquid fertilizer diluted by half

Propagation: Take 3-inch (8 cm) stem tip cuttings in spring or summer. Dip cut end in water, then hormone rooting powder. Place stem in moist mix, firm around stem to stand up. Enclose pot in plastic for humidity. Roots develop in ~1 month.