Magnolias

Magnolias are some of the most beautiful fragrant flowering trees you can find. They  come in evergreen, semi-evergreen and deciduous varieties, in tree form with either single or multiple trunks, or as shrubs. There are over 80 different species known.

Magnolias are relatively slow growers that can vary in height from 25-90 feet tall with a canopy between 10-40 feet. Different varieties bloom at various times so you can have flowers from spring through summer.  Flower colors range from pure white to cream, beige, yellow, pink, mauve, purple, red and various bi-colors. The leaves are also quite varied, from coarse and narrow to leathery or gray and fuzzy.

The Southern Magnolia, a southern favorite, (zones 7-9), is probably the most well known for large and highly fragrant showy white flowers that can get as large as 10 inches across. Magnolias are also known for their attractive glossy, heavy leaves that are rust colored on the underside. Both their flowers and the leaves are often used in wreaths, holiday decorations and wedding bouquets. They dry particularly well and are therefore especially popular in dried floral arrangements. The “star Magnolia” is a cultivar that can grow in more northern states and the Midwest, all the way down to zone 4.

Culture

Magnolias are low-maintenance trees that grow well in full sun or partial shade. They are also more tolerant of deep shade than many evergreens. Magnolias should be grown in well-drained, rich, moist soil that ranges from acidic to neutral.  Another consideration when choosing a planting spot is to stay away from windy sites, as Magnolias are susceptible to damage from wind, especially cold breezes. Magnolia’s roots are tender so covering with mulch is a good idea to keep soil from temperature extremes. If you decide to move a Magnolia you already have in your landscape it may suffer some transplant shock. The leaves may turn brown and drop but this usually self-corrects.

Magnolias do not require much pruning, but if you decide to prune, do it in late winter or after blooming in late summer. You can do minimal pruning throughout the season to keep the tree tidy, if desired.

Magnolias are usually disease and pest free, but one of the more common problems affecting the Southern Magnolia tree is a mite that attacks the undersurface of the leaves. The mites cause a brown discoloration on the undersurface of the leaves, especially near the base and margins. The leaves may drop prematurely.

Pruning

Prune the magnolia just after flowering since blooms appear on old wood, or last season's growth. Pruning later in the season or early spring will remove buds that produce blossoms, resulting in a disappointing flowering season. Prune lightly for improved shape, by cutting back suckers that grow from ground level away from the main trunk. Cut back branch tips to encourage more blooms. Also remove diseased or dead canes.

Adding a Magnolia to your landscape will be a stunning addition that is easy to maintain and will provide beautiful, large, fragrant flowers for many weeks in spring and summer.