The Evergreen Magnolias
Magnolia grandiflora are a large evergreen tree from the southern areas of North America. Also known as the ‘Bull Bay’ Magnolia as well as the ‘Southern Magnolia’.
The species is a large growing tree with glossy green foliage and large white flowers. Foliage is also backed with a ocher brown felty texture, giving the plant an extra interest.
The actual species is a large tree to over 25m in height with a broad crown to 15m, however it is the smaller growing cultivars that are offered by wholesale growers in Australia.
Landscaping Uses
Magnolia grandiflora and its cultivars are a versatile tree, they grow well in a wide range of climates and in Australia will grow from Tasmania through to tropical Queensland.
They do require a good humus rich deep soil and are best where they receive some rain through the hot summer months. However, once established they are a remarkably hardy and resilient tree.
Used as large shade trees, feature trees as well as for screening and hedging they are easily pruned and are very popular with landscapers.
Magnolia grandiflora will grow well in containers and large specimens have been installed outside the Casino in Melbourne.
Growth Rates and Heights
The height varieties greatly from cultivar to cultivars, the smaller growing types are easily kept to 6m, larger types vary from 15 to 25m.
Growth rate and final height will depend on climate as well as the soil and moisture availability. All will grow faster in warmer climates, many are grown in and around Sydney until they reach a good height and then shipped south to Melbourne. Growth rate in Sydney outstrips that in Melbourne by a good margin.
Magnolia grandiflora Varieties
Best divided into two groups, larger growing and smaller growing
The popular larger growing types in Australia include:
- Exmouth
- Greenback
- St Mary’s
- ‘Alta’ a columnar or upright form, chance seedling from M.grandiflora Hasse.
The smaller growing cultivars include:
- Little Gem
- Teddy Bear
- Kay Parris
Magnolia grandiflora are available for sale from the following participating Nurseries
email ask@plantmark.com.au
One of Australia's largest wholesale trade nurseries. Over 30,000 species available, tubestock to advanced trees, an almost unlimited choice of plants.
www.plantmark.com.au
111 Stanhope Road Theresa Park NSW 2570
Offering a variety of sun hardy Australian natives and exotic trees, shrubs, groundcover's and perennials from semi advanced through to super advanced and semi-mature stock.
www.downesnursery.com.au
17 McCarthy Rd Monbulk, Vic, 3793, Australia
Specialising in propagation and production of over 900 species / varieties of ornamental plants, perennials & rare plants. Supplying nurseries, landscapers & others. Minimum quantities apply! Contact us to discuss plants or growing requirements.
www.devontubestock.com
55 McDougal Rd Neerim South Victoria 3831 PH: (03) 56281507
Advanced ornamental trees and garden designs and concept plans. Direct to your property combined with specialist knowledge and outstanding service.
www.blericktreefarm.com.au