Chinese ixora is a plant that is native to tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. It is a shrub that can grow to be about 6 feet tall and has dark green leaves. The flowers of the chinese ixora are typically white or pink and they bloom in the summer.
Related plant:
Abutilon Chinese Lantern
About soil condition, Chinese ixora prefer well-drained, sandy loam soil with a slightly acidic pH. They are salt-tolerant and do not do well in wet, poorly drained soils. Add organic matter to the planting bed to improve drainage and increase fertility.
Not too different with other plants, the Chinese Ixora need sun to grow and stay healthy. The amount of sun required depends on the variety of Ixora. Some can tolerate partial sun, but others need full sun to perform well. When grown in too much shade, the plant becomes leggy and produces fewer flowers.
The temperature condition that is best for a Chinese Ixora is warm weather. They do not like it when the temperature gets too cold or too hot. They like to be in an environment that is moist but not too wet.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 40- 50%. If the humidity is to high or to low it will affect the growth of the plant. Also, the flowers will not last as long if the humidity is not at the ideal level.
Regarding fertilizer, this family of plant is not fussy and will do well with any type of commercial fertilizer. Just be sure to follow the package directions. Ixora also doesn't mind being root bound, so there's no need to worry about repotting too often.
Pruning is a vital part of caring for a Chinese ixora plant. Pruning not only helps to keep the plant looking its best, but also helps to encourage new growth. When pruning, be sure to remove any dead or dying branches, as well as any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other. This will help to promote air circulation and prevent the spread of disease.
Propagation of Chinese ixora is best done by rooting semi-ripe cuttings taken from the tips of new growth in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches (15 cm) long and have several leaves. Cuttings can be rooted in pots filled with a mix of peat and sand or in perlite. Rooting hormone will speed up the process. Keep the cuttings moist but not wet and in a warm, humid place until roots have formed. Once rooted, the plants can be transplanted into pots filled with a well-drained potting mix.
Usually, the plant growth rate is determined by the plant's age and how many leaves it has. The average growth rate for a chinese ixora is about 2 inches per year. The growth rate for a new chinese ixora plant is generally faster than for an older plant.
Common problems for this kind of plant are pests, diseases, and nutritional disorders. pests include whiteflies, scale, and mealybugs. Diseases include root rot, powdery mildew, and leaf spot. Nutritional disorders include deficiency in nitrogen, potassium, and iron.
Source:
Chinese Stories?Learn Mandarin From Chinese Stories
FPS 291/FP291: Ixora coccinea - University of Florida
Fact Sheet: Ixora leaf spots and chlorosis are common. What to do?