Scientific Name
Magnolia poasana (Pittier) Dandy
Common Names
Poas Magnolia, Candelilla
Synonyms
Talauma poasana
Scientific Classification
Family: Magnoliaceae
Subfamily: Magnolioideae
Genus: Magnolia
Flower
Color: White
Bloom Time: November through July
Description
Magnolia poasana is a sub-tropical to tropical, sub-canopy tree that grows up to 100 feet (30 m) tall. Leaves are glossy, glabrous, elliptic, up to 4.8 inches (12 cm) long, and up to 2 inches (5 cm) wide. The bark is smooth, reddish-brown with a gray cast. Flowers are bisexual, up to 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, with 6 spatulate, white petals and 3 gray membranous sepals. A perianth is formed of a yellowish-white corolla. The flowers bloom from November through July, peaking in February, March, and April.
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. 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 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 are pushing the limits of cold tolerance, avoid planting them in southern exposure since the leaves can be damaged by 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, over time, they will grow to fill up space.
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 poasana is native to high-altitude forests in Costa Rica.
Links
- Back to genus Magnolia
- Plantopedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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