Magnolia grandiflora Kay Parris

Description: Magnolia grandiflora 'Kay Parris' is an evergreen hybrid magnolia tree valued for its large, fragrant flowers and compact growth habit. It is a cultivar derived from the Southern Magnolia, renowned for its glossy foliage and impressive blooms.

Flowers:

• Blooms: Large, creamy-white flowers with a hint of lemon-yellow at the base. The flowers are cup-shaped and appear in late spring to summer, adding a touch of elegance to the landscape.
• Fragrance: The flowers emit a sweet, citrus-like fragrance that attracts pollinators and adds to the garden's appeal.

Foliage:

• Leaves: Glossy, dark green leaves with a leathery texture provide year-round interest. The foliage remains on the tree throughout the year, offering a lush backdrop to the blooms.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 7-10 meters tall and 4-6 meters wide, forming a pyramidal to broadly oval shape with a dense canopy.
• Habit: Upright when young, becoming more spreading with age.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in temperate to subtropical climates, suitable for many parts of Australia. It prefers mild summers and cool winters but can tolerate occasional frosts once established.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, acidic to slightly acidic soil enriched with organic matter. Mulching helps retain moisture and keeps the root zone cool.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Protect from intense afternoon sun in hotter climates.
• Watering: Regular watering during the establishment phase is important. Once established, it has moderate drought tolerance but benefits from supplemental watering during prolonged dry spells.

Uses:

• Landscape Feature: Ideal as a specimen tree in gardens, parks, and larger landscapes due to its attractive foliage and showy blooms.
• Screens and Hedges: Suitable for planting as a screen or hedge for privacy, especially when multiple trees are planted together.
• 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 any dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as it can affect flowering.
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced fertilizer in spring to promote healthy growth and flowering. Avoid excessive nitrogen, which can lead to lush foliage at the expense of blooms.
• 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 7-10. In cooler regions of Australia, provide protection from severe frosts to prevent damage to flowers and foliage.

Companion Plants: Underplant with shade-loving perennials or ground covers like hostas or ferns to enhance the base of the tree

Magnolia grandiflora 'Kay Parris'

Common Name: Kay Parris Southern Magnolia

Botanical Name: Magnolia grandiflora 'Kay Parris'

Family: Magnoliaceae

Origin: Cultivar selected for ornamental purposes

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