Family: Rubiaceae

Origin, Description & Uses:
Ixora coccinea, commonly known as jungle flame, is a tropical evergreen shrub native to South and Southeast Asia, particularly India and Sri Lanka. It is widely cultivated in warm regions around the world for its dense foliage and showy clusters of bright red, orange, pink, or yellow flowers that bloom year-round in suitable climates. This ornamental plant is popular in landscaping as a hedge, border, or accent shrub due to its compact growth and vibrant color. In addition to its decorative value, it has been used in traditional medicine in parts of its native range for treating minor ailments.

Risks & Threats:
Although jungle flame is not known to be naturalized in Hawaii, it does possess traits that are cause for concern. Its ability to thrive in tropical environments, produce abundant seeds, and tolerate pruning may allow it to spread beyond cultivation under favorable conditions. In other regions, closely related species in the Ixora genus have shown the capacity to establish outside gardens. Because of these characteristics, caution is recommended when planting this species to ensure that it will not negatively impact Hawaii’s ecosystems. Ongoing evaluation is needed to determine whether it could become invasive or affect native plant communities over time.

High Risk Traits:

• Naturalized in Puerto Rico and Florida
  
• Host for pests, pathogens, and disease vectors
  
• Tolerates shade and a wide range of soils
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Reproduces vegetatively (suckering, layering)
  
• Intentionally spread by people (ornamental)
  
• Bird-dispersed seeds survive gut passage
  
• Difficult to kill by mechanical means

Low Risk Traits:

• Not reported as a weed
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Non-toxic to animals and humans
  
• Low seed output (2 seeds per fruit)
  
• No evidence of persistent seed bank
  
• Natural enemies (e.g., scale insects) present locally