We introduce a new crop file in our Agromática database. Today we give way to a very peculiar tree, a hybrid species of the family Magnoliaceae. We love this family of plants so we are going to try to make a complete description of this specimen. Today, at Agromática, we cultivate magnolia soulangeana.
Let’s go to the common name, which is what many people are interested in identifying the tree. His name is Magnolia de Soulange o Magnolia tulípera. When in doubt (depending on the area where we are, variations may arise) we go to the scientific name, which never fails, Magnolia × soulangeana.
As it carries the x in the name, we know that it is a cross between two species, a hybrid. In this case, we are talking about a cross between Marcus uncovered y M. lilifolia. It can grow up to 6 meters in height, although it usually does not reach that much.
What is striking about this magnolia tree is its flowering, very showy and whitish in color with a pinkish outer part.
Magnolia soulangeana. Photography: Croton
Climatic characteristics
It is necessary to ensure that it does not have full exposure to the sun, as burns may appear on the leaves and damage the flowering.
Especially in the first years, growing it together with other trees (respecting its planting framework, of course), makes it enjoy areas of partial shade during the day. Once it is a large specimen, it will adapt perfectly to full sun conditions.
As for temperatures, we are lucky that it supports low temperatures, even light frosts. Just in case, here are some tips for protect crops when the cold comes.
Looking for her place in the garden
Do not be too complicated to find the area of Sun or shade, since when it grows and exceeds 3 meters in height, the glass will receive the corresponding solar radiation. It is best to prepare the soil with a good supply of decomposed organic matter as a bottom fertilizer. We must try to mix it well with the soil in our garden. With respect to pH, preferably acidic.
With this, apart from improving the level of organic matter in the soil (the correct thing is that it has values equal to or greater than 2%), we are able to improve drainage, texture and porosity. By planting it, we will give it a generous start watering.
Irrigation and fertilizer needs
The water needs in magnolia soulangeana they are tall. This means that it would be advisable to keep the earth in constant temperature. You have to take the point so that there are no periods where the earth dries out or cracks. Of course mentioning that in summer you have to intensify the irrigation.
As for the subscriber, the perfect thing would be to periodically provide organic fertilizers such as compost, manure or green padding that release minerals when decomposed. On average, you can make 2 subscribers of this type, one in spring and one in autumn.
Some cultural practices for the magnolia tree
For those gardeners who plant it from a very young age, remember that flowering takes a few years to appear. Of course, when it does, it provides a spectacular visual enhancement to the garden.
Can be multiplied by cuttings (a quite comfortable and effective way) that we will select in late spring or early summer. There are also other forms of reproduction such as layering or seed. However, the latter is very slow and achieves a late flowering of the tree. Growth is slow so through seed it is one of the longest forms of reproduction.
When buying a live specimen, take care that it is not excessively large since transplants are somewhat difficult.
If you decide to do it by seed
Any plant that multiplies by seed has its charm. He gets excited looking forward to the exit of the first sheets and we accept it as a triumph.
We just created life (however philosophical it may be). However, for magnolia soulangeana let’s be careful with the following:
- Try not to keep the seed. When they are bought, plant them as soon as possible (according to their planting time).
- You have to stratify them. Place the seed in a humid medium and keep it in the refrigerator (4-5 ºC) for 2 months. You have to make periodic checks, as they can germinate.
- Sow in pots or containers with the seed buried between 1 and 2 cm.
- The ideal temperature is between 18 and 24 ºC, in a bright environment.
- Germination can last between 2 weeks or extend 1 month or more, depending on the stratification.
- When transplanting to the garden, it is convenient that magnolia soulangeana receive an adaptation process, both to the Sun and to the outside temperature and humidity.
