Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Lennei’ (Saucer Magnolia)

Smaller than most Saucer Magnolias, Magnolia x soulangeana ‘Lennei’ (Saucer Magnolia) is a vigorous spreading deciduous shrub with fragrant, large, 4 in. across (10 cm), goblet-shaped flowers, deep rose-purple outside and pure white inside. As the flowers mature, they open their broad, fleshy tepals, revealing white interiors and creating a bicolor effect which further adds to the beauty of the floral display. The blooms appear on naked branches in early or mid-spring before the leaves unfurl. ‘Lennei’ may bloom sporadically in the summer, but the flowers are usually not as colorful as those produced earlier. ‘Lennei’ is also noted for its ovate, dark green leaves larger than most, 10 in. long.

Magnolia belongs to the Magnoliaceae family, which includes several popular species such as the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata), Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia × soulangeana), and Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana).

This hybrid Magnolia makes a wonderful specimen flowering shrub or small tree for the landscape. This is an excellent selection for patios, containers, and small gardens.

• Grows up to 15-20 ft. tall and wide (4-6 m)
• Winner of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is best grown in consistently moist, slightly acidic, organically rich, well-drained soils. Magnolias are adaptable to clay, loam, or sandy soils, but most grow poorly in wet or poorly drained soils. Provide a site sheltered from cold, dry winds, as cold winds may damage buds and flowers. Late frosts may damage flower buds too.
• May be attacked by capsid bugs, snails, horse chestnut scales, coral spots, gray mold, and honey fungus.
• Spectacular as a specimen plant for dramatic spring blooms. Great flowering tree for city gardens or cottage gardens.
• Magnolia pruning should be carried out in midsummer when in full leaf
• Deciduous Magnolias are best planted when dormant, in late fall or winter in warmer climates and early spring in cold climates. Evergreen magnolias are best planted in early spring. For the first 6 to 12 months after planting, both types will benefit from mulch and regular irrigation during warm or dry weather.
• Propagate by seed in autumn and spring, by softwood cuttings from late spring to early summer or semi-ripe cuttings from late summer to fall