Maui Ixora Sun Shock After Shade-to-Sun Move

Large Ixora (30 gal) Browning After Sudden Full Sun Exposure

Maui Ixora grown in shade, moved to full sun in Houston, sprouting new leaves but with brown tips/margins: classic photoinhibition/sunburn on shade-adapted foliage.

Why This Happens

• Shade leaves: thin, high chlorophyll, low protective pigments
• Sudden full sun: UV/heat destroys chlorophyll, burns tissue
• New growth will be sun-adapted (thicker, lighter green, waxy)

Management

1. Don't overwater—stressed roots rot easily
2. Temporary 30–50% shade cloth for 2–3 weeks eases transition
3. Fertilize 3×/year with acid-forming fertilizer (Ixora prefers pH 5.5–6.5)
4. Plan repotting soon—30 gal = salt buildup risk

Outcome

Old damaged leaves drop. New sun leaves replace them. Full adaptation in 4–6 weeks. Ixora loves full sun once acclimated.