Deciduous magnolias are wonderful small trees which produce large scented flowers on bare branches in winter and early spring. Although there are about 100 species of wild magnolias and many of them (such as Magnolia campbellii, M. sargentiana var. robusta and M. sprengeri from the Himalayas and Western China) are astonishingly beautiful, they are not easy to grow and can take up to 20 years to flower.
In recent years breeders have hybridised some of these species and developed a range of new magnolia varieties that are even more spectacular than those already familiar to gardeners.
New varieties
Don looked at some of the latest hybrids, which have large, richly coloured flowers. Most are also fragrant. When purchased these plants are about a year old, so expect to wait a couple of years or so until they are mature enough to flower. After about 10 years of age they reach around 3m (10′) wide and 5m (15′) tall, with a rounded crown and a narrow, compact growth habit. The three hybrids listed below are all grafted onto the vigorous Magnolia kobus understock.
‘Vulcan’ is a hybrid between a M. liliiflora hybrid and M. campbellii ‘Lanarth’, a cultivar gaining popularity in Australian gardens. This hybrid was raised in New Zealand. The flowers are large, wine red and lightly perfumed.
‘Phillip Tregunna’ is a hybrid between Magnolia campbellii and M. sargentiana var. robusta. It has large, voluptuous, perfumed mauve flowers which become silver in the centre.
‘Caerhays Belle’ is a Dutch-bred magnolia developed from a cross between M. sprengeri ‘ Diva’ and M. sargentiana var. robusta . The magenta pink flowers are large and perfumed.
Best climate: In sub-tropical zones such as Brisbane or inland regions where magnolias are less than happy, plant them in a cool spot with shelter from the strong winds and the hot afternoon sun.
Care:
Magnolias grow best in a slightly acid soil (pH 6-6.5 is ideal). Keep well watered, especially in summer, and protect from frost when young.
Cost and availability:
Plants may be hard to find. Ask your nursery to order one for you. They cost around $50-$55 (200mm or 8″ pots) and may not flower until next year. Some large sizes are available. The following nurseries usually stock these:
Parkers Nursery
45 Tennyson Avenue
Turramurra, NSW
Phone: (02) 9487 3888
Conifer Gardens Nursery
Sherbrooke Road
Ferny Creek, VIC
Phone: (03) 9755 1793
www.conifer.com.au
Raraflora Nurseries
Phone: (02) 4448 6034
Email: Click here
www.maplescamelliaswisterias.com.au
Yamina Rare Plants Nursery
25 Moores Rd
Monbulk, VIC
Phone: (03) 9756 6335
www.yaminarareplants.com.au