Saucer magnolia (Magnolia soulangeana)

Care, watering, light and tips for Saucer magnolia on Floravia.

Saucer magnolia

Quick facts

About Saucer magnolia

Magnolia soulangeana, commonly known as Saucer Magnolia, is a deciduous tree or large shrub celebrated for its early and spectacular bloom, featuring large, cup-shaped flowers that emerge before the leaves. Its petals, ranging from pure white to deep pink and purple, often display a beautiful gradient of color from the base. It is perfect as a specimen plant in gardens, standing out for its ornamental beauty in spring.

Native range

Horticultural hybrid, has no true native distribution

Care tips

It prefers full sun to partial shade and an acidic, organically rich, well-drained soil; avoid calcareous soils which can cause chlorosis. Watering should be regular, especially in its early years and during dry periods, keeping the substrate moist but not waterlogged. It is advisable to protect it from late frosts that can damage the flower buds. A common mistake is excessive or ill-timed pruning, which can drastically reduce flowering; pruning should be minimal and only for shaping or removing dead branches, preferably after flowering.

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