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Magnolia grandiflora

bull bay

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An impressive, evergreen tree with leathery, dark green, glossy leaves with rust-coloured hairs underneath. In late summer and early autumn, large, fragrant, pure white, goblet-shaped flowers open from upright, woolly buds at the end of the shoots.

Magnolia grandiflora looks magnificent when grown as a free-standing specimen, but it can also be trained as a wall-shrub where sapce is at a premium.

How to care for Magnolia grandiflora:

Choose a sheltered position away from strong winds. Work plenty of ericaceous compost into the planting hole to create the right soil conditions and water well after planting. Magnolias prefer neutral to acidic, moisture-retentive organic matter.

These shrubs and small trees need very little pruning. Only remove broken, diseased, or crossing branches, ideally in midsummer once flowering has finished. Heavy pruning is not recommended as it can spoil the natural shape and reduce future flowering.

Apply a mulch of leafmould or well-rotted manure in spring to help conserve soil moisture, especially on lighter soils. Water newly planted specimens regularly during dry periods, as magnolias dislike drying out. Once established, they need little attention beyond occasional feeding with an ericaceous fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth and abundant blooms.
Flowering period:
  • Jan
  • Feb
  • Mar
  • Apr
  • May
  • Jun
  • Jul
  • Aug
  • Sep
  • Oct
  • Nov
  • Dec
Eventual height:
15m
Eventual spread:
15m
Position:

Full sun / light shade

Rate of growth:

Average

Soil:

Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil

Hardiness:

Fully hardy

Product options

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PL00080175
3 litre pot | 30cm tall
£44.99
available to order from autumn
Unavailable
1
Delivery options (pick your preferred option at checkout)
Standard Delivery£5.99

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