Ixora ‘Super King’ is a vibrant and popular flowering shrub known for its bright clusters of flowers and dense foliage. Here’s a detailed overview of this plant:
Care
– Light: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages the most prolific flowering.
– Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but well-drained. Water regularly, especially in dry periods, but avoid overwatering.
– Soil: Thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
– Fertilization: Use a balanced fertilizer every few months during the growing season to promote healthy growth and blooming.
Growth
– Height: Typically reaches about 3 to 5 feet tall.
– Width: Can spread up to 4 feet wide, depending on the growing conditions and pruning.
Size
– Ixora ‘Super King’ can grow to be a medium-sized shrub, making it suitable for borders, hedges, or standalone specimens in gardens.
Color
– The flowers are usually a striking red or orange, providing a stunning contrast against the glossy green leaves. They bloom in clusters and attract butterflies and hummingbirds.
Landscape Use
– Ornamental: Great for tropical and subtropical gardens. Works well in mixed borders, as foundation plantings, or in containers.
– Hedge: Can be used for low hedges or privacy screens due to its dense growth habit.
– Attracts Pollinators: The flowers are a magnet for bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, adding life to your garden.
Additional Info
– Pruning: Light pruning can encourage bushier growth and more flowers. It’s best done after blooming.
– Pest/Disease Resistance: Generally resistant to pests, but watch for aphids or scale. Fungal issues can arise in overly moist conditions.
– Cold Tolerance**: Not frost-tolerant; best grown in warmer climates.
Growing Zones
– Hardiness Zones: Typically grows well in USDA Zones 9-11. In cooler areas, it can be grown as a container plant and brought indoors during winter.
Summary
Ixora ‘Super King’ is a stunning, low-maintenance addition to tropical landscapes. With its eye-catching flowers and lush foliage, it’s perfect for attracting wildlife and adding vibrant color to any garden.