Ixora
A tropical genus of shrubs and trees with religious and medicinal uses.
Ixora is a genus of flowering plants in the family Rubiaceae, the only genus in the tribe Ixoreae. The genus is notable for its cultural and religious significance, particularly in Hindu worship, and is commonly known as West Indian jasmine in subtropical regions of the United States such as Florida.
- genus
- Ixora
- family
- Rubiaceae
- tribe
- Ixoreae
- native_range
- tropical and subtropical areas worldwide
- centre_of_diversity
- Tropical Asia
- common_name_in_Florida
- West Indian jasmine
Lore & Background
The name Ixora is Latinized from Sanskrit Ishwara, one of the names of the Hindu god Shiva. The plants possess leathery leaves 7.6 to 15.2 cm long and produce large clusters of tiny flowers in summer. Members of Ixora prefer acidic soil and are suitable for bonsai, and in tropical climates they flower year round.
Reader's Guide
Ixora holds significance as a widely cultivated ornamental plant, particularly in Southeast Asia where it is a popular choice for hedges, and in Hindu worship where it is commonly used. It also appears in ayurveda and Indian folk medicine.
Did You Know?
- Ixora is the only genus in the tribe Ixoreae.
- The name Ixora is Latinized from Sanskrit Ishwara, a name of the Hindu god Shiva.
- In Florida, Ixora is commonly known as West Indian jasmine.
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