Scientific Name
Magnolia figo 'Purple Queen'
Common Name(s)
Banana Shrub
Synonym(s)
Magnolia figo var. crassipes 'Purple Queen'
Scientific Classification
Family: Magnoliaceae
Subfamily: Magnolioideae
Genus: Magnolia
Flower
Color: Cream-white
Bloom Time: Early spring through the summer
Description
Magnolia figo 'Purple Queen' is an evergreen tree that grows up to 13 feet (3.9 m) tall. It is distinguished from Magnolia figo by its dark red colored flowers and darker colored foliage. The leathery leaves are up to 10 cm long. This cultivar is grown as an ornamental plant in gardens for its fragrant flowers in early spring, with blooms continuing sporadically through the summer.
Hardiness
USDA hardiness zones 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. 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 USDA hardiness zones 7 to 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 push the cold tolerance limits, avoid planting them 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. So, while looking small when first planted, they will 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
This plant is a cultivar of Magnolia figo.
Links
- Back to genus Magnolia
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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