General Description/History

Magnolias are a very old and diverse flowering tree family with 80 species, most commonly found in north America, the Himalayas and western China. They are very popular garden plants due to their large spectacular flowers, and are easily hybridised, resulting in hundreds of varieties. Wild species can be difficult to grow and can take up to 20 years to flower, but the newer hybrids have solved this problem and can flower a few years after planting.

Magnolias are sold as flowering branches. Flowers are commonly borne before leaves reappear in late winter, giving rise to one of the most beautiful flowering displays in nature. Flowers are large, up to 25 cm wide, with large floppy ‘petals’. Magnolia flowers developed before petals evolved, so strictly speaking these petals are called tepals, and they surround the spiky centre of each flower in rings of 6. There are usually 2 rings of tepals giving a total of 12. Flower colour ranges from white to deep red, with every shade in between. Many forms are also fragrant.

What to look for

• Buy when flowers are 1/2 to fully open;
• Avoid branches with yellow leaves or where flowers drop off when branches are shaken.

Flower Care

1. Keep cool at all times.
2. Strip leaves from the lower half of each stem and wash stem ends thoroughly.
3. Recut at least 2 cm off each stem and place in water immediately.
4. Do not bash or split stems.
5. Always use a preservative as this will help keep open flowers looking fresh.
6. Replace vase water with fresh preservative every day.

Interesting Facts about this Flower

Magnolia is an ancient genus. They evolved before bees appeared, and so the flowers evolved to be pollinated by beetles. As a result, the carpels of Magnolia flowers are tough, to avoid damage by beetles.

Magnolia is the state flower of Louisiana and Mississippi.

Botanical Name: Magnolia sp.

Common Names: Magnolia

Stem Length: 40 – 90 cm

Country of Origin: North to Central America, Asia

Available Colours: Red, White

Season: Winter,Spring

Availability: July,August,September,October,November