In The Garden: Ixora ‘Nora Grant’ known for versatility, durability
Ixora “Nora Grant” (Ixora coccinia), pronounced “icks-SORE-ah,” is perhaps one of the most quintessential plants of Southwest Florida with its colorful hot pink flowers, which bloom off and on all year long. The evergreen shrubs require minimal care and thrive in full sun or light shade, which make them suitable for many varying types of gardens.
They typically can range from 3-5 feet tall, which make them great additions for hedges and beautiful fence borders or as anchor plants for mixed gardens. There are also dwarf varieties, which work well planted in pots and used as accents to entryways, pools and decks, along driveways and gates, et cetera. If given enough room, Nora Grant can also grow into tall screening hedges that rarely require pruning.
There are several varieties of Ixora, with colors ranging from red, orange, yellow and pink, with gorgeous flowers that last up to six to eight weeks upon blooming. Each flower has four petals that appear somewhat like a cross and have a deep tubular throat that can be up to 2 inches long.
The Nora Grant variety is the most popular hybrid of Ixora and is known for its versatility and durability. It requires little water, but should be planted in a well-drained and slightly acidic soil. Ixora is very tolerant to moderate salt levels in water, but you will want to avoid planting it in a direct ocean breeze. Avoid planting in sites that are exposed to very cold northwest winds. The hardiness rating is 9B, so temperatures below freezing will cause leaf damage.
Few pests bother this plant. Occasionally, the stinging caterpillars will find the plant attractive, so be mindful when hand pruning so you do not grab one.
In The Garden is a joint effort by all at the local garden center, at 3889 Sanibel-Captiva Road, Sanibel. For more information, contact 239-395-5859 or visit www.facebook.com/rswalshinthegarden.