Magnolia Soulangiana
Description: The Saucer Magnolia is a deciduous tree or large shrub, highly regarded for its ornamental qualities. It typically grows up to 33 feet in height and 25 feet in width, making it a moderately-sized addition to any landscape. This species is a hybrid of two Japanese magnolias, Magnolia heptapeta and Magnolia liliiflora, combining the best features of both parent plants.
Twig/Bark: The tree is distinguished by its smooth, silver-gray bark, which provides a striking visual contrast in the landscape, especially during winter months when the leaves have fallen.
Leaves: The Saucer Magnolia features elliptical leaves, which are medium to dark green during the growing season, adding texture and color to the tree’s overall appearance.
Flowers/Fruit: This tree is best known for its large, cup-shaped flowers, which have become its signature feature. It blooms in late winter to early spring, well before the leaves emerge, making the floral display even more prominent. The blossoms come in a variety of colors, ranging from pure white to soft pink and deep purple, creating a stunning visual effect in the garden. By late summer, typically in August and September, the tree produces a 4-inch long aggregate fruit that contains reddish-orange seeds, which add another layer of interest.
Habitat: The Saucer Magnolia thrives in climates where the soil is rich, well-drained, and supplemented with organic matter. It prefers locations with full sun exposure in the morning and partial or filtered shade during the afternoon to protect it from excessive heat. Due to its moderate size at maturity, the Saucer Magnolia is an excellent choice for smaller garden spaces, and can be planted near houses or patios without overwhelming the area.