With foliage that is long and with wavy leaf margins Magnolia ‘Kay Parris’ is regarded by many as one of the best smaller growing cultivars.
New growth is tinged with pink, the foliage matures to deep glossy green with a felty brown indumentum on the underside. This a large shrub to small tree, was to prune and with large fragrant flowers appearing from spring into summer it is very attractive.
This is a variety with short internodes, making it densely foliaged, exec;;ent as a screening tree. Once established it requires little extra water and is frost tolerant.
Pruning
This is also a tree that can easily be pruned, in fact it takes well to both tip pruning on a regular basis as well as responding to hard pruning.
If pruned selectively from an early age the size can be maintained at much less than 7m with relative ease.
Like all evergreen magnolias Kay Parris is shallow rooted, it is best not to dig around the tree, in fact a good layer of mulch is beneficial in keeping the root run cool and clear of weeds.
Fairly tolerant of conditions, growing well in warmer areas, but also coping in cold climates. In cooler areas the growth rate will be slower.
Landscaping Uses
Used as both a specimen plant and as hedging plant or screen the lovely dense foliage is a glossy green backed with the typical felted rusty brown of the species.
Magnolia ‘Kay Parris’ Care
- Height – Will reach around 6 metres in height over 10 years, taller over time. Easily pruned to size.
- Spread – Will spread to around 3 – 4 metres.
- Growth rate – Regarded a moderate. Actual growth rate will depend on soil and climate. Faster growth in warmer climates and good soil.
- Humus rich deep moist soil is best
- Dig in well rotted compost before planting
- Stake when young to allow an upright habit to form
- Water in well with a liquid seaweed fertiliser
- Mulch to maintain a cool root run
- Fertilise with a slow release fertiliser in spring
Problems
Very few real problems if planted in late summer to autumn which gives the plant a chance to establish a good root system before summer.
Like all Magnolias you will get some leaf litter although this is easily controlled.
In extremes of hot weather, if grown in full afternoon sun the plant may be subject to a little leaf burn, this is especially true of young plants planted from spring to summer. With extra water and a good layer of mulch the plant will recover well.
Magnolia ‘Kay Parris’ is available for sale from the following participating suppliers
Advanced container grown trees & shrubs. Large range of native plants & ornamentals ranging from 14cm to 45 litre. Specialists in indigenous plants and supply for Urban development. Supply & deliver all states.
www.talltrees.com.au
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