"Ixora coccinea: The Vibrant Jungle Geranium for Tropical Gardens"

**Ixora coccinea**, commonly known as **Jungle Geranium**, **Flame of the Woods**, or **Jungle Flame**, is a tropical evergreen shrub that belongs to the Rubiaceae family. Here are some key details about this plant:

### Appearance:
- **Flowers**: Ixora coccinea is known for its vibrant, dense clusters of small flowers that can be red, orange, pink, or yellow. The flowers are tubular with four petals, and they bloom throughout the year in warm climates.
- **Leaves**: The plant has glossy, dark green, leathery leaves that are elliptic in shape and grow in opposite pairs.
- **Size**: This shrub can grow up to 4-6 feet tall and wide, though it can be pruned to maintain a desired size.

### Habitat:
- **Native Region**: Ixora coccinea is native to South Asia, including India and Sri Lanka, but is also found in other tropical and subtropical regions.
- **Growing Conditions**: It thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil and requires full sun to partial shade. It is often used as a hedge or border plant in gardens and landscapes.

### Care:
- **Watering**: Requires regular watering, but the soil should not be waterlogged.
- **Pruning**: Pruning can be done to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
- **Propagation**: Can be propagated through cuttings or seeds.

### Uses:
- **Ornamental**: Widely used in gardens and landscapes for its colorful, long-lasting flowers.
- **Medicinal**: In some cultures, parts of the plant are used in traditional medicine.

Ixora coccinea is popular for its vibrant appearance and relatively easy care, making it a common choice in tropical and subtropical gardens.