Magnolia soulangiana ‘Lenneii’

It is difficult to ignore a magnolia when it comes into flower in spring with its large tulip like flowers in shades from white through pink to purple. The flowers occur as the plant is starting to produce its leaves and so are not hidden behind the foliage.

The pale pink tulip like flowers of magnolia soulangiana can reach 15cm long and are really showy whilst the stronger colours of Magnolia ‘Susan’ and liliflora nigra are very eyecatching.

The smallest of the magnolias you will typically find is Magnolia stellata which rows to 150cm (5ft) in ten years whilst the majority of the tulip flowered varieties reach about 450cm (13ft) in a similar time.

Some varieties of magnolia such as Magnolia stellata can be grown in a pot but most will grow best in the garden either as a centrepiece in a lawn or in the border. They prefer neutral to acidic soil, so dig in some ericaceous compost when planting, and will grow in full sun or partial shade. They are easy to grow, not requiring any pruning although they can be lightly trimmed if required and an acid feed a few times a year will help the growth. They are largely pest free.

Plant with rhododendrons, azaleas and camellias to make a fantastic spring border, the plants enjoy similar conditions.

Magnolia ‘Coerhays Surprise’	Magnolia stellata	Magnolia ‘Susan’	Magnolia sinensis