General Description/History

Magnolia leaves are either sold as individual dried or fresh leaves, or fresh attached to branches. Leaves can be sourced all year if your supplier has access to M. grandiflora, as this is evergreen and does not shed its leaves in autumn. Otherwise leaves will be available from September to May. Each leaf is large, up to 20 cm long (depending on species used) and lance-shaped, with a prominent mid-rib. Dried leaves are olive green on top and a lighter green underneath, sometimes with a pinkish tinge. Fresh leaves are a glossy dark green on top and reddish brown below (if it is M. grandiflora) and again have a pale green mid rib. Leaves have a short stem.

Individual Magnolia leaves are popular in bouquets, particularly for weddings, while branches are used in large arrangements.

What to look for

• Undamaged leaves.
• Avoid yellow or mottled leaves if buying fresh

Flower Care

1. Keep cool! Never place in full sun
2. Recut at least 2 cm off each branch with sharp secateurs and place in cold water
3. Do not smash or split stem ends
4. Use a preservative as this will keep leaves looking fresh
5. Replace vase water with fresh preservative every day
6. Individual leaves can be stored dry in the fridge for 1 or 2 days. Placing leaves in a sealed plastic bag with a little moisture is the best bet, but keeping them longer than 3 or 4 days in this manner can cause fungal disease

Botanical Name: Magnolia sp., usually M. grandiflora

Common Names: Magnolia

Stem Length: Branches: up to 100 cm

Country of Origin: North to Central America, Asia

Available Colours: Brown, Green, Pink, Red

Season: Summer,Autumn,Winter,Spring

Availability: January,February,March,April,May,June,July,August,September,October,November,Decemeber