Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is a popular hybrid species of magnolia tree that is renowned for its stunning, fragrant white flowers. It is a deciduous tree with a graceful, upright habit, and is native to China and Japan. The flowers are large and cup-shaped, with a hint of pink in the centre.
This magnolia tree is a popular choice for gardeners and landscapers alike, due to its beautiful blooms and easy maintenance. It is also a popular choice for bonsai enthusiasts, as it can be easily trained and shaped into a variety of shapes.
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is an ideal choice for adding a touch of elegance and beauty to any garden.
History and origin of magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina
The Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is a hybrid species of deciduous magnolia that is native to the gardens of China, Japan, and Korea. The Magnolia genus can be found in many countries across the globe, but in the United Kingdom, the alexandrina hybrid is a popular garden attraction.
This hybrid of magnolia was first developed by Étienne Soulange-Bodin, a military officer and botanist, in the late 18th century. It has since become a garden favorite due to its distinct, bright pink and white flowers. The Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is a large shrub or small tree, typically reaching a height of between three and five meters.
The plant’s most distinctive feature is its abundance of vibrant, showy flowers that range from light pink to deep rose-red. These flowers bloom from early spring to late summer and often have a delightful sweet fragrance.
The evergreen, glossy green foliage and the woody texture of the trunk add to the plant’s allure. This hybrid, as with other deciduous magnolias, is relatively low maintenance and easy to tend, requiring little pruning and no supplemental irrigation. Prior to transplanting, it is important to note that if a Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is planted too deep, the risk of fungal rot increases and can adversely affect plant health.
Light pruning during periods of dormancy can ensure that the plant is strong and healthy, promoting growth and a high quality of flowering. Overall, the Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is an attractive addition to any garden. With its vibrant colors and sweet smell, it is sure to bring life and beauty to any outdoor space.
Its easy care requirements make it a great option for those who are looking for an enjoyable gardening experience.
Characteristics of magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina, often referred to as a saucer magnolia, is a hybrid magnolia renowned for its profuse, vibrant and fragrant blooms. Originating in France in the early 19th century, the tree derives from a cross between the star magnolia (magnolia stellata) and the lily magnolia (magnolia lilliflora).
Standing tall and developing an oval framed form with graceful branches, the magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina adds an elegant presence to any garden. The glossy dark green leaves have an elliptical shape and, once the vegetation has matured, the tree takes on a spectacular show of large and delightfully scented blooms. The classic flower is wide and cup-shaped, ranging in color from light to dark purple, and has 6-12 tepals that radiate outward.
Due to its large size, the magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is best planted in a large area that has good air circulation, preferably with some morning sun and afternoon shade to protect the blooms from the intensity of the midday sun. This hybrid magnolia is hardy to cold temperatures and can grow in temperatures down to -15 °C. It is also incredibly long lived, so gardeners can enjoy its magnificence for many years.
Growing and caring for magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina are becoming increasingly popular as ornamental trees in UK gardens, offering stunning displays of pink and white fragrant flowers and glossy foliage throughout the growing season. This magnolia is a hybrid between two species; Magnolia denudata and Magnolia liliiflora, which are native to China.
Due to its hybrid heritage, Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina possess the best qualities of both species, making them a great low maintenance tree for the home gardener. Growing a Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is easy, as long as you provide the right conditions. They prefer full sun or partial shade in a sheltered, moist location, but can tolerate colder conditions.
The most important thing is to plant the tree at an appropriate depth to ensure solid anchoring as they can grow tall, up to 10 meters, depending on conditions. When planting, ensure the soil has good drainage and plenty of room for the roots to expand. You can add additional compost or manure to the existing soil to help increase the availability of essential nutrients.
In terms of pruning and maintenance, Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina does not require much attention. When young, the tree may need some light pruning to encourage branch development, otherwise simply remove any dead branches or shoots at the base of the tree.
With its fragrant flowers, dark green foliage and attractive conical shape, this is the perfect choice for a garden feature or as a backdrop to flower beds and other plants. Take care not to overcrowd the magnolia, as the flowers need plenty of air circulation to truly flourish.
With proper care and attention, this magnolia will bring your garden to life.
Uses and benefits of magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina, sometimes referred to as the Alexandrina Magnolia, is a hybrid species belonging to the genus Magnolia. This deciduous flowering tree is native to China and Japan, providing charming and ornamental blooms in the early spring months of the year.
The Alexandrina Magnolia is an appealing addition for any garden, with its graceful vase-shaped form and huge fragrant white flowers. One of the biggest benefits of this magnolia is its hardiness. The tree is both disease and pest resistant, making it an excellent choice for those looking for a low-maintenance tree.
Additionally, it is also very tolerant of droughts and floods, making it an ideal choice for gardens located in regions prone to natural disasters and extreme weather events. The fragrant white flowers begin to show themselves during the early spring months and are backed by glossy, deep green foliage. Blooming time varies throughout different parts of the world, but generally occurs between the months of March and April.
The fragrant white, cup-shaped blooms can be up to 7 inches across, providing a delightful burst of colour in the spring. For those looking to give their garden a unique and captivating focal point, Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is the perfect choice.
This stunning hybrid species is an excellent addition to any garden, providing stunning ornamental blooms and a graceful vase-shaped form. It is also highly tolerant of extreme weather events, making it a hardy and resilient choice for those gardens located in tricky climates.
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Bottom Line
The Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is a hybrid species of flowering tree in the genus Magnolia. It is a deciduous tree with fragrant white flowers that bloom in early spring. It is a popular ornamental tree for gardens and parks, and is also used for landscaping and as a street tree.
It is tolerant of a wide range of soils, but prefers moist, well-drained conditions. It is drought-tolerant once established, and is hardy in USDA zones 7-
FAQ
What is the scientific name of Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina?
The scientific name of Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Alexandrina’.
What are the characteristics of Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina?
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is a deciduous shrub or small tree with a rounded crown and a spreading habit. It has large, fragrant, white flowers with purple-pink centers that bloom in late spring. The leaves are dark green and elliptical in shape. It is a hardy plant that can tolerate a wide range of soil types and is drought tolerant. It can reach a height of up to 10 feet and has a lifespan of up to 20 years.
Where is Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina native to?
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina is native to China.
How tall does Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina grow?
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina typically grows to a height of 10 to 15 feet.
What type of soil does Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina prefer?
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina prefers well-drained, acidic soil with a pH of 5.5-6.5.
How often should Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina be watered?
Magnolia x soulangeana alexandrina should be watered once a week, or when the soil feels dry to the touch.
