Scientific Name
Magnolia figo (Lour.) DC.
Common Name(s)
Banana Shrub, Port Wine Magnolia, Dwarf Chempaka, Brown-stalked Magnolia, Chinese Tulip Tree
Synonym(s)
Magnolia figo var. figo, Liriodendron figo, Michelia figo, Liriopsis fuscata, Magnolia annonifolia, Magnolia fasciata, Magnolia fuscata, Magnolia meleagrioides, Magnolia parvifolia, Magnolia versicolor, Michelia fascicata, Michelia fuscata, Michelia parviflora, Sampacca parviflora
Scientific Classification
Family: Magnoliaceae
Subfamily: Magnolioideae
Genus: Magnolia
Flower
Color: Cream-white
Bloom Time: Early spring through the summer
Description
Magnolia figo is an evergreen tree that grows up to 13 feet (3.9 m) tall. Leaves are leathery, dark glossy-green, and up to 10 cm long. It is cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens for its fragrant flowers that are creamy-white, purple, or light purple and strongly scented with isoamyl alcohol. The flowers appear in early spring, with blooms continuing sporadically through the summer.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zone 8a to 10b: from 10 °F (−12.2 °C) to 40 °F (+4.4 °C).
How to Grow and Care
Although different species of Magnolia can tolerate slightly different conditions. In general, they will do best with slightly acidic, moist, loose, well-draining soil. To mimic Magnolia's natural conditions, amend heavy soil with peat moss and compost. Grow best in Zones 7-10, depending on variety, with a few cultivars hardy to zone 5. Full sun to partial shade. Moist, peaty soil can help Magnolias tolerate the full sun. If you're pushing the limits of cold tolerance, avoid planting Magnolias in southern exposure since the leaves can be damaged by the winter sun, and flowers may open prematurely. Magnolias benefit from irrigation in the first few years, and then they are tolerant of moderate drought.
They need room to grow to their full mature size and width. While looking small when first planted, they'll grow to fill up space over time.
Some Magnolia varieties don't bloom until 15 years old, so be sure to choose one that fits your needs and expectations. Grafted plants (rather than seed-grown) bloom sooner. See more at How to Grow and Care for Magnolias.
Origin
Magnolia figo is native to China.
Cultivars
Links
- Back to genus Magnolia
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
Photo Gallery
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