Sunkist Dwarf Ixora

Sunkist Dwarf Ixora (Ixora 'Sunkist') is a rounded, evergreen tropical shrub just 50cm tall and 30cm wide, covered in clusters of warm red-orange flowers through spring and summer. Glossy, vivid green leaves keep it fresh between flushes, and the compact size suits deck pots, low edging and mass planting.

Why you'll love it

• A warm red-orange. The colour sits between true orange and red, which blends easily with tropical foliage and bright flowers.
• Evergreen and glossy. The leaves stay vivid green all year, so the plant looks good even when it is not in flower.
• Compact all round. At 50cm by 30cm it suits small gardens, window boxes and tight beds.
• Hedge or mass planting. Clip it into a low hedge or let it merge into a flowering sweep.

Where it works best

Low edging. Plant 30cm apart along a path or bed edge for a neat line of glossy foliage that flowers in the warmer months.

Mass planting. In groups of five or more, at the same 30cm spacing, the red-orange heads join up into a bold patch of colour.

Deck plant. A pot 30cm wide on a sunny deck suits one plant. In cooler regions it can be enjoyed as a houseplant in a bright room.

Growing Sunkist Dwarf Ixora in Australia

Position and climate. Full sun to part shade. Sunkist is tropical and evergreen, so it enjoys warm, humid conditions and must be protected from frost. In cool climates, keep it in a container so it can move to shelter.

Soil. Well drained soil that is not alkaline, which causes yellow leaves. For pots, choose an acidic mix.

Water and feed. Mulch and water regularly until the plant is established, usually around 12 weeks. Provide plenty of water during dry periods. If the leaves yellow after dry weather, feed with a liquid seaweed fertiliser.

Pruning. Prune after flowering to promote a dense habit and bountiful blooms in the following season.

What to expect when it arrives

We sell Sunkist Dwarf Ixora as tube stock: a young plant in an 80mm deep tube that establishes quickly in warm soil. Plant it out as the weather warms and expect steady growth into the first summer.

Because tube stock comes from our grower, it is not always on hand. A sold out tube on this page means the grower has none at the moment, and the notify button emails you the day it returns.

Plants are delivered Australia wide, with delivery from $29.95. Every plant is covered by our 30 day healthy plant guarantee.

Plant care guides and related reading

• Growing ixora in Australia: varieties and care
• Tropical plants
• Plants for pots and containers
• Plants for tropical climates

Common questions

Is Sunkist red or orange?

It is both: a warm red-orange that shifts a little with light and temperature.

How close should I plant it for a hedge?

Plant 30cm apart. At that spacing the plants meet in a season or two and form a low, dense line.

Will it survive a frost?

No. It is frost tender, so cover it or move it into shelter when frost is forecast, or grow it in a container.