Magnolia x soulangeana Genie

Description: Magnolia x soulangeana 'Genie' is a deciduous magnolia tree admired for its exquisite, tulip-shaped blooms and compact growth habit. This hybrid cultivar is prized for its rich, deep purple-red flowers, making it a stunning focal point in gardens and landscapes.

Flowers:

• Blooms: Large, goblet-shaped flowers with deep burgundy-purple petals that emerge from distinctive upright buds. The blooms appear in early spring before the foliage, creating a dramatic display.
• Fragrance: The flowers emit a subtle, sweet fragrance that enhances the garden ambiance.

Foliage:

• Leaves: Dark green, elliptical leaves provide an elegant backdrop to the vibrant blooms. The foliage transitions to yellow in autumn before shedding, adding seasonal interest.

Form and Size:

• Size: Typically grows 3-4 meters tall and 2-3 meters wide, forming a compact, rounded canopy.
• Habit: Upright and pyramidal when young, becoming more rounded with age.

Growing Conditions:

• Climate: Thrives in temperate to cool climates, suitable for many regions of Australia. Protect from hot, drying winds and provide shelter from late frosts that can damage early blooms.
• Soil: Prefers well-draining, acidic to neutral soil enriched with organic matter. Mulching helps retain moisture and regulate soil temperature.
• Sunlight: Best grown in full sun to partial shade. Morning sun with afternoon shade can help protect against intense heat.
• 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, parks, and larger landscapes, where its early spring blooms create a striking focal point.
• Borders and Screens: Suitable for planting in borders or as a screen due to its compact size 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: Underplant with early spring bulbs like daffodils or add ground covers such as liriope or hostas for additional seasonal interest.

Magnolia x soulangeana 'Genie'

Common Name: Genie Magnolia

Botanical Name: Magnolia x soulangeana 'Genie'

Family: Magnoliaceae

Origin: Hybrid cultivar selected for ornamental purposes

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