Magnolias: Timeless Elegance in the Garden

Magnolias are among the most cherished trees and shrubs in the gardening world, known for their stunning and fragrant flowers. These ancient plants have a timeless appeal that suits a wide range of garden styles. Whether you prefer the delicate star-like flowers of Magnolia stellata or the grand, glossy-leaved presence of Magnolia grandiflora, there is a variety to fit every space and taste.

 

A Look at Five Popular Magnolia Varieties

1. Magnolia stellata (Star Magnolia)

Photo by Brittney Strange

A favourite among gardeners with smaller spaces, Magnolia stellata (commonly called Star Magnolia) is a deciduous shrub or small tree that bursts into bloom in early spring. Its delicate, star-shaped white flowers appear before the leaves, creating a striking contrast against bare branches and they are lightly scented.

Key Features:

• Height and Spread: 2.5 x 4 metres
• Prefers well-drained soil but tolerant of alkaline ones
• Compact habit, ideal for small gardens
• Lightly fragrant flowers, 10 cm across

 

2. Magnolia ‘Susan’

Photo by Bruce Kee

A member of the Little Girl hybrid magnolia series, Magnolia ‘Susan’ is a showstopper with its deep pink to purple, tulip-shaped blooms. This compact, slow-growing variety is perfect for urban gardens, offering an extended flowering period from mid to late spring.

Key Features:

• Rich, fragrant purple-pink flowers, 10-12 cm across
• Grows well in full sun to partial shade, in neutral to acid soil
• Reaches around 4 metres in height and spread
• Awards: RHS Award of Garden Merit

 

3. Magnolia ‘Leonard Messel’

Photo by laura adai 

A hybrid between Magnolia kobus and Magnolia stellata, Magnolia ‘Leonard Messel’ is prized for its elegant, bi-coloured flowers. The soft pink, star-shaped petals have a deeper pink flush on the outside, creating a beautiful two-toned effect.

Key Features:

• Height and Spread: 8 x 6 m
• Flowers on bare wood, blooms are 10 cm across
• Tolerant of alkaline soils as long as they are well-drained
• Award: RHS Award of Garden Merit

 

4. Magnolia x Soulangeana (Saucer Magnolia)

Photo by Andreea A

One of the most widely grown magnolias, Magnolia x Soulangeana (commonly known as Saucer Magnolia) is a spectacular hybrid that produces large, goblet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, white, and purple. Its blooms emerge in early spring before the foliage, making a bold statement in any garden.

Key Features:

• Large, showy flowers measuring up to 25 cm across
• Deciduous with an elegant spreading or multistem habit
• Requires well-drained soil, neutral to acid, and benefits from a sheltered location
• Can reach up to 6 metres in height and spread, making it a great focal point in a garden

 

5. Magnolia grandiflora (Southern Magnolia)

Photo by Anastacia Dvi

Unlike the previous varieties, Magnolia grandiflora is an evergreen magnolia, known for its impressive glossy leaves and massive, creamy-white flowers that bloom throughout summer. This majestic tree is commonly seen in warmer climates and is one of the most fragrant varieties.

Key Features:

• Evergreen with large, glossy, dark green leaves
• Produces huge, fragrant flowers (up to 25 cm wide) in summer
• Thrives in warmer climates but can be grown in sheltered spots in temperate regions
• Can reach up to 20 metres in height, making it a striking addition to larger landscapes

 

Growing and Caring for Magnolias

While magnolias are relatively low-maintenance, they do have some specific care requirements to ensure they thrive:

• Soil: They prefer well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter.
• Sunlight: Most magnolias grow best in full sun to partial shade.
• Watering: Young trees require regular watering, but once established, they are relatively drought-tolerant.
• Pruning: Minimal pruning is needed, usually only to remove dead or damaged branches.
• Protection: Some varieties, particularly early bloomers (like the Stellata), can be susceptible to frost damage, so planting them in a sheltered spot can help protect delicate buds.

Why Choose Magnolias for Your Garden?

Magnolias offer year-round interest, whether through their early spring blossoms, summer fragrance, or striking evergreen foliage. With varieties suitable for both large and small gardens, they make an excellent choice for anyone looking to add elegance and seasonal beauty to their outdoor space.

No matter which variety you choose, a magnolia is sure to bring a sense of timeless charm to your garden for years to come.