Magnolia macrophylla

Rare even in its native habitat of South Carolina, USA, Magnolia macrophylla has huge flowers and the largest leaves of any Magnolia, up to 1 m (3 ft) long, green above and silvery-grey beneath. Established plants, have huge and fragrant, creamy-white flowers, sometimes up to 14 inches (30+ cm) in diameter.

With such bold foliage Magnolia macrophylla must be grown out of the wind in a sheltered situation and is susceptible to damage by spring frosts until mature, once established it is fully hardy and a stunning tree.

• Position: Full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Well drained, lime free, fertile soil.
• Hardiness: reasonably hardy. Magnolia macrophylla requires a warm, sheltered position to establish well.
• Flowering Period: June.
• Flower Colour: White
• Rate of Growth: Slow.
• Habit: Effectively a shrub for many years, Magnolia macrophylla eventually grows to be a small, rounded tree.
  • Height: up to 8 m (26 ft).
  • Spread: up to 8 m (26 ft).

• Notes: Magnolia macrophylla can be planted for up to 8 - 12 years before it flowers fully and so is generally best considered a foliage plant in the short term.