Michelias are one of the best ever flowering trees. New smaller growing varieties are now available.
Common name: Michelia
Botanic name: Michelia doltsopa ‘Scented Pearl’ and Michelia doltsopa x M. figo ‘Mixed Up Miss’. The genus name Michelia is named after a Florentine botanist, Michel. It is from the same family as the Magnolia.
Climate: It is a warm to sub-tropical tree that will grow from Tasmania to Brisbane. It is native to China.
The new varieties ‘Scented Pearl’ and ‘Mixed Up Miss’ are smaller and neater than the original Michelia doltsopa, reaching a height of 3m (10′), whereas the species will grow up to 10m (30′).
They flower at a younger age than the species.
‘Scented Pearl’ has dark foliage with almost black stems, white flowering with a glorious scent.
‘Mixed Up Miss’ flowers white with a port wine blush on the edge of the petals. The flowers never fully open.
Flowering begins in mid to late winter.
Hardy and frost tolerant shrub.
As grafted plants they are quite expensive.
As new varieties they will be difficult to find.
Fragrant shrub with stunning flowers as a feature plant in the front or backyard.
Their smaller size will mean they could fit into almost any garden.
Sunny position in well-drained soil.
To be left alone. Once well established will not tolerate being moved.
Getting started: These new varieties may be difficult to find, but should be readily available from nurseries in Melbourne. ‘Mixed Up Miss’ and ‘Scented Pearl’ cost around $35-$40 for a 20cm (8″) pot.