Ixora chinensis, commonly known as Chinese ixora, is an evergreen shrub native to tropical and subtropical areas in Southeast Asia, including southern China. It typically grows to a height of 4-6 feet (1.2-1.8 meters) with a similar spread. Chinese ixora has a dense, rounded form with glossy, leathery leaves that are dark green in color. It produces large, spherical clusters of tubular flowers, which come in a variety of colors including bright red, orange, or yellow, and bloom throughout the year, with peak flowering occurring in the summer months. The flowers are quite showy and attract pollinators such as butterflies and hummingbirds.

Chinese ixora is highly valued in cultivation for its vibrant and long-lasting blooms, which make it a popular choice for tropical and subtropical gardens. It is often used in hedges, borders, and as a specimen plant. In cooler climates, it can be grown in containers and brought indoors during the winter. This shrub prefers full sun to partial shade, well-drained soil, and regular watering, though it is somewhat drought-tolerant once established. It is also salt-tolerant, making it suitable for coastal planting. While generally easy to maintain, Ixora can be susceptible to pests such as scale insects and spider mites, and it may suffer from chlorosis in alkaline soils. Acidic soil conditions are preferred to maintain healthy foliage and vibrant blooms.CC BY-SA 4.0