Magnolia denudata

A deciduous tree that can grow up to 10m tall and 8m wide. For urban gardens, it can be maintained to 5m tall and 4m wide with an upright round-shaped tree and nice structure.

Pure white showy cup shaped flowers are produced in winter to early spring before oval shaped green leaves.

Prefers free-draining moisture retentive soils. Grows well in a sunny position with shelter from strong winds.

Always choose healthy well grown plants and plant after autumn rains as the soil is moist and warm and allows trees and shrubs to become established before winter. This enables them to withstand dry periods during the following summer. Young plants require thorough watering during dry periods over the first two or three years. Mulching helps to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Planting success is often improved on clay soils by adding extra topsoil and raising beds. Incorporate coarse sand, bark, peat, compost or other organic material to improve soil structure. Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square meter as new growth begins.

Tall plants and those in windy positions require staking to stabilize the root ball until established. Position the stakes in the hole before planting and place the plant between them. Use wide ties that hold securely without chafing tie firmly but allow room for the trunk to increase in girth without constriction. This allows the plant to move a little in the wind encouraging the development of a strong root system without the risk of chafing or root damage.

Mulching annually helps suppress weeds and conserve moisture. Organic materials such as sawdust and bark contribute to soil structure as they decompose but keep mulching material away from the trunk. They benefit from a dressing (50g/m) of general purpose fertiliser in early spring as new growth begins this will encourage more vigorous healthy growth. Sprinkle evenly and work into the top 2 to 3cm of the soil, taking care not to damage surface roots.

Magnolias require little maintenance and do not usually require pruning other than to remove deadwood and branches that rub against one another but if pruning is required it should be done immediately after flowering has finished. Shrubby types can be readily contained in size with annual pruning. Once the Magnolia become more established they are typically hardy and require little maintenance. The first summer and autumn after planting is critical for young plants; water thoroughly during dry periods. Pests and diseases can have serious debilitating effects on young plants; check regularly. Check stakes and ties for chafing and constriction and remove as soon as plants are strong enough to withstand winds without damage.

Attracts bees and bumblebees. Wetas love the dead and rotten parts of the tree and provide a great habitat for earwigs.

Watch out for borer which is very common. It can get mildew if it's in the wrong position e.g. in a shady moist position. Wind damage can break branches which can lead to rot and dieback so ensure plants are in sheltered positions.

Meadow type plants work well - bulbs (e.g. bluebells, leucojum, daffodils, freesias), japanese irises, hellebores, hydrangeas, dichroa, camellias, rhododendrons, azaleas and pieris.

Urban Trees

Magnolias are very ancient trees with fossilised remains noting their presence before that of honey bees.

The long history of magnolia cultivation goes back to the Tang Dynasty 618 AD. Its beauty was celebrated on ancient Chinese embroideries scrolls and porcelains in scenes of the countryside. Its elegant flowers made it ""a gift worthy of an emperor."" The petals are known as a delicacy dipped in flour and lightly fried. Today very old gnarled specimens can be found in Chinese temples and other public places throughout China.

Magnolia denudata was the first magnolia to be introduced from Asia to the western world when it was brought to England in 1780.