Description: Magnolia 'Cleopatra' is a deciduous hybrid magnolia tree celebrated for its striking, fragrant flowers and compact growth habit. It is known for its early flowering and attractive foliage, making it a popular choice in gardens and landscapes.

Flowers:

• Blooms: Large, goblet-shaped flowers with bright yellow petals that open to reveal a hint of orange at the base. The blooms appear in early spring, often before the foliage emerges, creating a spectacular display.
• Fragrance: The flowers emit a delicate, sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators and adds to the garden's ambiance.

Foliage:

• Leaves: Dark green, glossy leaves provide a lush backdrop to the vibrant spring blooms. The foliage turns yellow in autumn before dropping, adding seasonal interest.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 3-5 meters tall and wide, forming a rounded, multi-stemmed habit with a moderate growth rate.
• Habit: Upright and bushy, with a dense canopy that becomes more open with age.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in temperate climates with mild summers and cool winters, suitable for many regions of Australia. Protect from hot, drying winds.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, acidic to neutral soil enriched with organic matter. Mulching can help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to part shade. Morning sun with afternoon shade can help prevent leaf scorch in hotter climates.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is crucial. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance but benefits from consistent moisture during dry periods.

Uses:

• Landscape Feature: Ideal as a specimen tree in gardens and parks, where its early spring blooms create a vibrant focal point.
• Borders and Screens: Suitable for planting in borders or as a screen due to its dense growth habit and attractive foliage.
• Containers: Can be grown in large containers or pots on patios and balconies, provided they have sufficient space for root growth.

Maintenance:

• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can affect flowering.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers, which can encourage leafy growth at the expense of flowers.
• Pests and Diseases: Generally resistant to pests and diseases. Monitor for scale insects, aphids, and powdery mildew, especially in humid conditions.

Notes:

• Hardiness: Hardy in USDA zones 5-9. In cooler regions of Australia, ensure protection from late frosts that can damage flowers.
• Companion Plants: Pair with early spring bulbs like daffodils or underplant with ground covers such as vinca or ajuga for added seasonal interest.

Propagation: Propagate from semi-hardwood cuttings in summer or by grafting onto suitable rootstocks.

Magnolia 'Cleopatra'

Common Name: Cleopatra Magnolia

Botanical Name: Magnolia 'Cleopatra'

Family: Magnoliaceae

Origin: Cultivar selected for its ornamental qualities

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