About
Magnolia campbellii, Campbell's magnolia, is a vigorous, conical then spreading, deciduous tree to 15 m or more. Enormous, waterlily-shaped flowers up to 30 cm across in white or crimson to rose-pink � initially goblet-shaped then spreading wide � are produced in late winter and early spring, ahead of the large, oval leaves. A spectacular specimen tree, though plants may not flower until they are 20�30 years old.
About the genus
Magnolia are deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs with large, showy and often fragrant flowers that frequently open before the leaves emerge, and sometimes followed by colourful, cone-like fruiting heads. Among the most spectacular of all flowering trees and shrubs.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH4
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
HeightHigher than 12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toHimalaya to China
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well-drained neutral to acid soil in full sun or part shade with shelter from cold winds. Late frosts may damage flower buds and/or flowers. See magnolia cultivation
PruningMinimal pruning required, see magnolia pruning. Deciduous magnolias should only be pruned between midsummer and early autumn
PropagationPropagate by softwood cuttings from late spring to early summer or semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to autumn
Pest resistanceMay be susceptible to scale insects, horse chestnut scale and capsid bug
Disease resistanceMay be susceptible to coral spot, phytophthora, grey moulds, honey fungus, a virus or fungal leaf spot