Magnolia liliiflora |
Syn. Magnolia quinquepeta
Native Region: China; Far East
Zone Range: 5-9
Preferred Climate: Full/semi sun; well draining deep soil
Harvest Date: Friday 23 April, 2010
Seed count: 12-15
Description:
A small multistemmed tree/shrub with gorgeous large sweetly scented flowers with thick petals being dark pink on the outside contrasting wonderfully with creamy ivory/shell pink inner. Blooms can be enjoyed from June with spontaneous bloom into October. Lovely mid green not-too-big leaves. The tree itself doesn't get too large making it perfect for small and large gardens. Reaches 4 metres in height with equal spread.
Notes:
Lilifloras are multibranched shrubs and flower reseasonably well in semi shade for most of the day with lots of sun in the afternoon. Fuzzy flower buds open mid May and give quite a show. Never lime magnolias. Cutttings strike fairly well.
Cultivation:
Stratifying seed available for a while longer until it starts to germinate. Never let magnolia seed dry out as this kills the embryo. Sow immediately 2 cm deep, keep moist, keep the pot outside to finish the cold stratification cycle of 120 days. Sunlight inhibits germination. Most seed will germinate in May with the remaining the following May. Newly emerging seedlings need indirect light/dappled shade at first then stronger light as they put down a larger root system. Protect from nibbling pests two years. Note: seed beginning to sprout are too fragile to ship (and are all mine!). All magnolias growing in temperate regions have identical seed germination requirements where no special treatment is needed other than sowing and cold stratification (experience cold damp conditions).
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