Family: Rubiaceae

Native to China, Ixora has been cultivated since antiquity. Ixora hedges have long been a favorite in Hawai’i. Blooming year-round, vibrant flower clusters stand out among the glossy green leaves. Sixty individual flowers make up each cluster, each with a long tube and four petals. Flowers can be red, orange, scarlet, yellow, or other colors. Bees and pollinators are attracted to the bright flower colors.

Viable seeds are not produced. Instead, reproduction is done by vegetative cuttings. Ixora thrives in acidic soils and full sun.  Virtually maintenance-free once established, water in times of drought. To induce more flowering and vibrant leaves, trim a few times a year.

Plant Uses:

• Bonsai
• Container plant
• Hedge
• Ornamental
• Privacy / screening
• Bonzai

Plant Dangers:

• Unknown

High Risk Traits:

• Thrives in tropical climates
  
• Possibly naturalized in Japan and Colombia (South America)
  
• Reproduces by seeds
  
• Hybridizes with other Ixora species
  
• Exhibits some self-compatibility
  
• Seeds dispersed by birds and intentionally by people

Low Risk Traits:

• No reports of detrimental impacts or invasiveness
  
• Unarmed (no spines, thorns, or burrs)
  
• Non-toxic
  
• Ornamental value
  
• Limited seed production in cultivation reduces risk of accidental or long-distance dispersal
  
• Not reported to spread vegetatively