Malayan Ixora

Other common names: Jarum-jarum, Khem Deang

Malayan ixoras are a hardy shrub that is commonly seen in rewilding areas, nature parks, in roadside gardens, and biodiversity-attracting gardens. The nectar-filled flowers is highly attractive to a wide range of insects, including butterflies, ants and moths. The berry-like fruits are attractive birds and small mammals. This plant is also native to Singapore and is naturally found growing along primary and secondary forests.

A perennial shrub, Malayan ixoras are useful as biodiversity-attracting plants and perimeter plants to add a pop of colour to any garden.

Sun and soil needs:

This plant thrives in less than 6 hours of direct sunlight or 4-8 hours of indirect sunlight. Plants do best in moist, well-drained soil.

Growing:

Malayan ixoras are steady growers and generally does not need fertilising. This shrub can grow up to 7m in height and will need to be pruned regularly. Regular pruning to promote airflow will keep the plant healthy and neat.

Propagation:

Malayan ixoras can be grown from seed or woody cuttings with rooting hormone.

Common problems & solutions:

This plant is relatively resistant to pests and disease if kept healthy.

Malayan ixoras may look leggy when young. Encourage bushiness with regular pruning.

If the plant does not receive enough light, it will stop producing flowers. Prune surrounding plants or move the plant to a sunnier spot to promote flower growth.

Aphids, mealy bugs, whiteflies, and spider mites often infest the plant if it has underlying problems like repeated wilting from heat stress. Mechanical pest control methods like pruning the infested parts are the best methods for managing these pests in the short term, but resolving the underlying problem will prevent them in the long term.

Wilting may occur during periods of hot weather or from the lack of watering. Regular wilting will stunt plant growth. Increase the number of times a plant is watered, or use mulch to retain moisture in the soil.

This plant may show signs of iron deficiency in which new leaves will turn pale yellow with dark green veins. This is usually caused by waterlogged soil, particularly during the wet season. Improve drainage by mixing in more organic matter or adding a subsoil drain nearby.