Ixora coccinea(Idly poo)

Description

🌺 Ixora coccinea (Jungle Geranium, Flame of the Woods) – Detailed Description

Ixora coccinea, commonly known as Jungle Geranium, Flame of the Woods, or Jungle Flame, is a vibrant, evergreen flowering shrub native to Southern India and Sri Lanka. It is widely grown across tropical and subtropical regions for its dense clusters of brightly colored flowers and glossy green foliage.

🌿 Appearance:

• Flowers: Small, tubular flowers grouped in dense, rounded clusters (called inflorescences) that appear at the tips of branches.

• Colors: Most commonly bright red, but also available in pink, orange, yellow, and white varieties.

• Leaves: Thick, leathery, dark green leaves, oval or lance-shaped, 4–10 cm long.

• Plant Size: Can grow as a compact bushy shrub from 1 to 2 meters tall (3 to 6 feet), and can also be trained as a small hedge.

☀️ Light Requirements:

• Requires full sun to partial shade to bloom profusely.

• Inadequate sunlight can reduce flowering.

💧 Watering & Soil:

• Prefers moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter.

• Water regularly but avoid waterlogging.

• Mulching helps retain moisture and protect roots.

🌡️ Climate & Hardiness:

• Thrives in warm, humid climates.

• Sensitive to frost and cold—best suited for USDA zones 9–11.

• Can be grown in pots and moved indoors in cooler climates.

🌼 Flowering & Maintenance:

• Blooms year-round in tropical climates, with peak flowering in summer.

• Attracts butterflies and pollinators.

• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage more blooms.

• Apply balanced fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season for vibrant flowers.

🌿 Uses:

• Commonly used in hedges, borders, and ornamental gardens.

• Excellent for container planting on balconies and patios.

• Has traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine for treating skin and stomach ailments.

⚠️ Notes:

• May be prone to aphids, mealybugs, or scale insects, especially in humid environments.

• Tolerates pruning well and responds with denser growth.

🌸 Summary:

Ixora coccinea is a beloved tropical shrub known for its vivid flower clusters and lush foliage. With minimal care, it offers year-round color, attracts pollinators, and adds brightness to gardens, patios, and landscapes across the tropics.