About
Magnolia tripetala, the umbrella tree, is a broadly conical, deciduous tree to 10 m with obovate to inversely lance-shaped, dark-green leaves to 60 cm, clustered at the shoot tips. Cup-shaped, creamy-white, strongly scented flowers 15 cm or more across are produced in late spring to early summer. A dramatic specimen for a large, sheltered garden.
About the genus
Magnolia are deciduous or evergreen trees and shrubs producing large, often fragrant, showy flowers � sometimes before the leaves emerge � in shades of white, pink, red or purple, sometimes followed by ornamental, cone-like fruiting clusters.
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeClay, Loam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained, Well-drained
AspectEast-facing, South-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH6
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitSpreading branched
FoliageDeciduous
Height8-12 metres
Spreadwider than 8 metres
Time to full height20-50 years
Suggested usesArchitectural, Cottage and informal garden
Native toEastern USA
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationGrow in moist but well drained neutral to acid soil in full sun or light shade with shelter from cold winds. Late frost may damage the leaves and flower buds. For more information see magnolia cultivation advice
PruningPruning Group 1. See magnolia pruning
PropagationPropagate by seed or semi-ripe cuttings
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