 |
ative |
|
Common name: Ixora, Jungle geranium, Rugmini रुगमिनी (Hindi), Vedchi (Tamil),
Rangan (Bengali), Chethi (Malayalam)
Botanical name: Ixora coccinea Family: Rubiaceae (coffee family)
Related to the gardenia and coffee plants, Ixora is said to be native to Asia
and whose name derives from an Indian deity. There are about 400 species
spread from Africa to India to Southern Asia. They differ in leaf size, plant
height, flower size and flower color. This plant which blooms throughout the
year is easy to grow. The flowers are found in a wide range of colours. Plants
are of two types- large; with height around 1 meter and dwarf or miniature
plants. Miniature ones have small leaves and are bushy. Ixora flowers last
well when picked and put into a vase with water, making an attractive home
arrangement.
Ixora flower has traditionally been associated with enhanced sexuality
and the re-kindling of passion.
Identification credit: Rita Singh
|