Overview
Magnolia x alba is a bushy trees in the genus Magnolia, part of the Magnoliaceae family, with deciduous foliage. Magnolia x alba grows best in full sun and partial shade, and tolerates loam and sand soils and acid and neutral pH. Its UK hardiness is rated H6. Suggested uses include city and courtyard gardens, cottage and informal garden and flower borders and beds.
About
Magnolia × alba, also known as the white champaca, white sandalwood, or white jade orchid tree, is a hybrid flowering plant that is commonly cultivated in Southeast Asia and tropical regions of East Asia. Although the exact origin is uncertain, it is considered to be a hybrid of Magnolia champaca and Magnolia montana.
Growing conditions
Best soil and position for Magnolia
- Sunlight
- Full sun, Partial shade
- Soil type
- Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Moist but well-drained
- Aspect
- South-facing, West-facing, East-facing
- Exposure
- Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H6
Plant details
Magnolia x alba size, habit and characteristics
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Suggested uses
- City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Flower borders and beds
Care notes
Pruning and caring for Magnolia x alba
- Propagation
- Softwood cuttings, Semi-ripe cuttings
- Pest resistance
- Scale insects, Horse chestnut scale, Capsid bug
- Disease resistance
- Coral spot, Phytophthora, Grey moulds, Honey fungus, Virus diseases, Fungal leaf spot
Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to plant Magnolia x alba?
Magnolia x alba prefers full sun and partial shade. It suits sheltered positions.
What soil does Magnolia x alba need?
Magnolia x alba grows best in loam and sand soil. It prefers acid and neutral soil. Aim for soil that stays moist but well-drained.
Is Magnolia x alba hardy in the UK?
Magnolia x alba has an RHS hardiness rating of H6, meaning it is very hardy, tolerating -20 to -15°C across most of the UK.
How do I propagate Magnolia x alba?
Softwood cuttings, Semi-ripe cuttings.
More in the Magnolia genus
- Magnolia 'Antje Zandee'

- Magnolia 'Aurora'

- Magnolia 'Pink Delight'

- Magnolia 'Randy'

- Magnolia Watermelon ('Mgwat2011b'PBR)

- Magnolia biondii 'Charlie Looping'
- Magnolia campbellii 'Ann Jenkins'

- Magnolia coco
