Creeping Jenny vs Flame of the Woods Plant Comparison
Compare these two plants side by side — care needs, key differences, and which is right for your home.
Creeping Jenny
Lysimachia nummularia
Creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia) is a perennial ground cover known for its trailing stems and round, coin-like leaves. It's primarily an outdoor plant, often used in gardens as a ground cover, in hanging baskets, or cascading over walls. While it can be grown indoors, it requires specific conditions to thrive and may not be as vigorous as when grown outdoors. People grow it for its attractive foliage and ability to quickly cover ground.
Flame of the Woods
Ixora coccinea
Ixora coccinea, commonly known as Flame of the Woods, is a tropical evergreen shrub or small tree prized for its vibrant clusters of small, star-shaped flowers. The flowers typically come in shades of red, orange, yellow, or pink. It is a popular ornamental plant in warm climates, often used in hedges and foundation plantings. While it can be grown indoors, it requires very specific conditions and is more commonly cultivated outdoors. People grow it for its showy blooms and dense foliage, adding a splash of color to landscapes.
Quick Plant Comparison
| Feature | Creeping Jenny | Flame of the Woods |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Bright, indirect light to full sun outdoors. Indoors, provide bright indirect light, ideally near a south- or west-facing window. | Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to flower profusely. |
| Watering | Every 3-7 days, depending on light and temperature | Every 2-5 days outdoors, potentially less frequently indoors depending on light and humidity. |
| Humidity | 40-60% | 50-70% |
| Temperature | 18-24°C | 21-27°C |
| Care Level | Expert | Expert |
| Growth Rate | Fast | Moderate |
| Max Height | 2-10 cm (indoors) | Indoors: 0.6-1.2 meters (2-4 feet). Outdoors: 1.2-3 meters (4-10 feet). |
| Pet Safety | ❌ Toxic To Pets | ❌ Toxic To Pets |
| Soil | Well-draining potting mix, such as a mix of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. | Well-draining, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter. A mix of potting soil, peat moss, and perlite is suitable. |
| Beginner Friendly | With Caution | ❌ No |
| Weekly Maintenance | 10 minutes weekly | 30 minutes weekly |
🔬 Botanical Information — Comparing These Plants
Creeping Jenny
| Scientific Name | Lysimachia nummularia |
|---|---|
| Family | Primulaceae |
| Native To | Europe |
| Also Known As | Creeping Jenny, Moneywort, Twopenny Grass |
| Leaves | The leaves are small, round, and coin-like, typically 1-2 cm in diameter. They are usually bright green, but some varieties have golden or variegated foliage. The texture is smooth and slightly succulent. |
| Flowers | It rarely flowers indoors. When it does, it produces small, yellow, cup-shaped flowers in the summer. |
Flame of the Woods
| Scientific Name | Ixora coccinea |
|---|---|
| Family | Rubiaceae |
| Native To | India, Sri Lanka |
| Also Known As | Flame of the Woods, Jungle Flame, Jungle Geranium, Scarlet Ixora |
| Leaves | The leaves of Ixora coccinea are opposite, simple, and oblong-lanceolate in shape. They are typically 5-10 cm long and 2-4 cm wide. The leaves are glossy green and have a leathery texture. |
| Flowers | Ixora coccinea rarely flowers indoors unless provided with very specific conditions. Outdoors, it produces clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of red, orange, yellow, or pink. The flowers are fragrant and attract pollinators. |
📏 Size & Growth — Plant Comparison
Creeping Jenny
Flame of the Woods
🌱 Propagation — Comparing Plant Growth
Creeping Jenny
Methods: Stem cuttings, Division
Difficulty: Easy
Tips: Take stem cuttings in spring or summer and root them in water or directly in moist soil. Division can be done in spring or fall by separating the rhizomes.
Flame of the Woods
Methods: Stem cuttings, Air layering, Seed
Difficulty: Moderate
Tips: Take semi-hardwood cuttings in spring or summer. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the cuttings moist and in a warm, humid environment.
✨ Benefits & Features — Comparing Plant Value
Creeping Jenny
Creeping Jenny is known for its rapid growth and trailing habit, making it a popular choice for ground cover and hanging baskets. Its small, round leaves give it a unique and attractive appearance. It is also relatively easy to propagate from stem cuttings.
- ✓ Adds visual interest to indoor spaces with its trailing habit.
- ✓ Can be easily propagated to create more plants.
- ✓ Provides a touch of greenery to brighten up a room.
- ✓ Relatively easy to care for once its needs are understood.
- ✓ Can be used in various container arrangements.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
Flame of the Woods
Ixora coccinea is known for its vibrant, long-lasting flower clusters that come in a variety of colors. Its dense foliage and compact growth habit make it a popular choice for hedges and foundation plantings. It is also a favorite among butterfly and hummingbird enthusiasts.
- ✓ Adds vibrant color to the landscape.
- ✓ Attracts pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds.
- ✓ Provides a tropical aesthetic.
- ✓ Can be used as a hedge or screen.
- ✓ Offers a sense of accomplishment for experienced gardeners.
- ⚠️ Toxic to pets
📅 Maintenance Schedule — Plant Care Comparison
Creeping Jenny
Flame of the Woods
🌞 Light Requirements
Creeping Jenny
Bright, indirect light to full sun outdoors. Indoors, provide bright indirect light, ideally near a south- or west-facing window.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
Flame of the Woods
Full sun to partial shade. Requires at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily to flower profusely.
Low light tolerant: ❌ No
💧 Watering Needs
Creeping Jenny
Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged. Allow the top inch of soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering will cause the leaves to wilt and turn brown. Ensure good drainage.
Flame of the Woods
Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Signs of overwatering include yellowing leaves and wilting, even when the soil is moist. Underwatering is indicated by drooping leaves and dry, crispy edges.
🌡️ Temperature & Humidity
Creeping Jenny
Temperature: 18-24°C
Humidity: 40-60%
Flame of the Woods
Temperature: 21-27°C
Humidity: 50-70%
🤔 Which Plant Is Right For You?
Creeping Jenny
Lysimachia nummulariaExperienced plant owners looking for a trailing plant to add to a bright indoor space or outdoor container.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You want a trailing plant for a hanging basket or container arrangement.
- You have a bright indoor space where it can receive ample light.
- You enjoy the look of its small, round, coin-like leaves.
- You are an experienced plant owner who can provide the necessary care.
- You want a plant that is easy to propagate.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that may ingest the plant.
- You cannot provide bright, indirect light indoors.
- You are a beginner plant owner looking for a low-maintenance plant.
Flame of the Woods
Ixora coccineaExperienced gardeners in warm climates who want a vibrant flowering shrub for their landscape.
✅ Choose This Plant If...
- You live in a warm, humid climate with plenty of sunshine.
- You want to attract butterflies and hummingbirds to your garden.
- You are an experienced gardener looking for a rewarding challenge.
- You appreciate vibrant, long-lasting blooms.
- You have a greenhouse or sunroom where you can provide the necessary light and humidity.
❌ Skip This Plant If...
- You have pets that might ingest the plant.
- You live in a cold climate with limited sunlight.
- You are a beginner gardener.
- You don't have the time to provide the high level of care required.
- You don't have a bright, sunny location.
🎯 Quick Verdict
⚡ Key Differences Between These Plants
Creeping Jenny has fast growth, while Flame of the Woods grows moderate.
💡 Pro Tips For Comparing These Plants
Creeping Jenny Care Tips
Creeping Jenny is relatively easy to grow outdoors, but requires more attention indoors. Providing adequate light and consistent moisture are crucial. It can become leggy and less vibrant indoors without sufficient light. Regular pruning is needed to maintain its shape and prevent it from becoming too invasive.
- Provide bright, indirect light to prevent leggy growth.
- Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season.
- Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
- Monitor for pests and treat promptly.
Flame of the Woods Care Tips
Ixora coccinea is challenging to grow indoors due to its high light and humidity requirements. It needs bright, direct sunlight and consistently moist, well-draining soil. Maintaining adequate humidity is crucial. Regular fertilization is also necessary to promote flowering. It is best suited for outdoor cultivation in warm climates.
- Provide at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
- Maintain high humidity levels by misting regularly or using a humidifier.
- Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, but avoid overwatering.
- Fertilize regularly during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth.
⚠️ Common Problems & Solutions — Plant Care Comparison
Creeping Jenny
Flame of the Woods
❓ Frequently Asked Questions — Comparing These Plants
Creeping Jenny
What are the light requirements for Creeping Jenny?
Creeping Jenny prefers bright, indirect light, but it can tolerate partial shade. In brighter light, the foliage will be more vibrant and the growth will be more vigorous. Avoid direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day, as it can scorch the leaves. An east-facing window is ideal, but a north- or west-facing window can also work, as long as the plant receives sufficient light.
How do I care for Creeping Jenny?
Creeping Jenny thrives in bright, indirect light but can tolerate some shade. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch, avoiding overwatering which can lead to root rot. Well-draining soil is crucial. Fertilize monthly during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced liquid fertilizer diluted to half strength. Prune regularly to maintain desired shape and encourage bushier growth.
How do I propagate Creeping Jenny?
Creeping Jenny is easily propagated through stem cuttings or layering. For stem cuttings, take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem, removing the lower leaves. Place the cutting in water or directly into moist potting mix. Roots should develop within a few weeks.
Flame of the Woods
What are the light requirements for Flame of the Woods?
Flame of the Woods requires bright, indirect light to thrive and produce abundant blooms. Insufficient light can result in leggy growth and a lack of flowering. A location near an east-facing or west-facing window is ideal, providing ample light without the harshness of direct sunlight. If placed near a south-facing window, use sheer curtains to filter the light. Rotate the plant regularly to ensure even light exposure on all sides. During the winter months, when light levels are lower, consider supplementing with a grow light to maintain adequate illumination. Avoid placing the plant in deep shade, as this will significantly hinder its growth and flowering potential. The plant’s leaves should be a healthy green color; pale or yellowing leaves may indicate insufficient light.
How do I care for Flame of the Woods?
Flame of the Woods thrives with bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can scorch its leaves. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry, ensuring proper drainage to prevent root rot. Maintain high humidity levels by misting regularly or using a humidifier, especially in drier climates. Fertilize every 2-3 weeks during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer formulated for flowering plants. Reduce fertilizing in fall and winter. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage bushier growth. Repot every 1-2 years in spring, using a well-draining potting mix. Keep the plant in temperatures between 65-80°F (18-27°C). Avoid exposing it to temperatures below 60°F (15°C). Check regularly for pests like spider mites and mealybugs, and treat promptly if found. Ensure good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Provide a slightly acidic soil pH for optimal growth.
How do I propagate Flame of the Woods?
Flame of the Woods can be propagated through stem cuttings. Take a 4-6 inch cutting from a healthy stem, removing the lower leaves. Dip the cut end in rooting hormone and plant in a well-draining potting mix. Keep the soil moist and provide high humidity by covering the cutting with a plastic bag or dome. Place in bright, indirect light. Roots should develop in 4-6 weeks. Division is possible, but less common. Keiki propagation is not applicable to this species. Ensure the parent plant is healthy before taking cuttings. Maintain a warm environment for successful rooting.
Last updated: April 30, 2026 — Plant care data reviewed and verified by our editorial team.