Tropicals - Ixora (Flame of the Woods)
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  Enclosed is a leaf cutting and flower from a plant that is still in its original container. It is now 16 inches in height and has doubled in size this summer. The flower resembles that of a hydrangea and is burnt orange in color. It blooms continually. Can you identify it for me and tell me about it? I have brought it indoors, but would it survive outside? (Bull Shoals)

  The plant in question is Ixora, commonly called Flame of the Woods. It is not winter hardy in Arkansas but does grow outdoors in southern Florida where it can form a hedge. It has lovely orange clusters of flowers and blooms during the warm months of the year. New cultivars now offer flowers in red and pink. Water freely when in bloom, but more sparingly during the winter. It doesn’t like temperatures much below 60 degrees. Repot it to a larger container in the spring as you move it outdoors. Fertilize monthly during the summer.

  My husband purchased a new plant this summer that we need advice for wintering over. The name on the tag was Ixora.  We look forward to your instructions regarding this plant.

  This plant you have correctly assumed, will not overwinter outdoors.  Ixora, is often sold as a houseplant and seems to acclimate easier to indoor conditions. Give it a bright sunny location, keep it evenly moist and it should do fine. If it begins to get leggy, it may be pruned by half to encourage new growth.

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