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Posted by Swedboy (U14400604) on Saturday, 22nd January 2011
One of the million things I would like to have in my garden is a magnolia. I have been toying with the idea of planing one in the centre of my garden (either in the ground or in a big container) ever since I moved in. The garden is about 50 square meters (5x8) and gets quite a lot of sun in the afternoon.
No idea really what variety would suite me but spotted a Red Lucky on Thompons&Morgan that seems to be small and apparently flowers twice a year.
, in reply to message 1.
Posted by margaretstar (U14415248) on Saturday, 22nd January 2011
I don't know Red Lucky, but a magnolia that flowers twice a year would be a
good thing, I suspect the second flush might be less abundant.
Magnolias are one thing that really shouldn't be pruned if it can be helped (apart from magnolia grandiflora) - though it is possible if done sparingly and well - I have done it on occasions. It's because of the haphazard sprouting afterwards, not because they'll die.
So it is important to get one that won't outgrow the space. They are pretty slow growing.
Stellata is a lovely magnolia (of course!) but even it maybe a bit big for your garden.
Here is a link - there is one there "magnolia Susan" which looks interesting, though more of a shrub.
How about a Stellata?
Ooops! margaretstar and I must have sent at the same time! I grew a Stellata in the UK, very pretty and I am sure it was scented.
Fantastic spring site seeing a Magnolia in full flower. One thing to bear in mind is they can grow to a very large size depending on variety and they are quite slow growing so it may be quite a few years before you start to see a real show in springtime.
I think the commonest "small" Magnolia is one called Stellata (white flowers) but this can still grow to a considerable size albeit after alot of years. Two others to think about are Susan (which I grow) and Nigra. Both these have pink flowers.
I know I'm a slow typer but that ridiculous, when I started there were no replies to this thread I was interupted though, honest
The Stellata is quite right size wise but I am looking for something that has more of the traditional magnolia shaped flowers. Quite liked the look of Susan and Nigra.
What is slightly odd to see is some magnolias being recomeded for small gardens and then discovering they are going to be 10x10m!
K-J
It will take decades for a magnolia (excepting grandiflora) to reach 10m. In addition just about any tree/shrub can be kept to a size you want by judicious yearly attention. Remember also that most magnolias take at least a decade to begin flowering properly!!! (stellata varieties flower very early in life and are natuaurally small(ish)).
GT
Thanks. That is good to know. I am quite tempted to get one and put in a half barrel (guess that is pretty expensive.)
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