What's out now - striking Magnolia
Who said nothing happens in the garden in Winter?! We had a look at Camellias recently, now comes this striking flowerer - the Tulip or Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana)
It was first bred in France about 200 years ago and has since gone on to become a favourite with designers particularly for more traditional or heritage gardens.
How gorgeous is this!
Here it is in full bloom. I bet you're smiling! As you can see it's a low branching, small tree getting to about 5 metres high - ideal for smaller gardens.
It can take full sun to part shade but I wouldn't have it in a west facing garden. Shelter it from the wind so for coastal gardens I'd be looking for something else.
Consider using this magnolia as a single feature tree but, if you have the space, imagine a row of them - spectacular!
Curiously it flowers before it's leaves come out, here it is in early summer in full leaf mode.
Magnolia x soulangeana goes well with Camellias, Roses, Azaleas, Wisteria, Agapanthus and Hydrangeas.
Who said nothing happens in the garden in Winter!
