Magnificent MAGNOLIAS

Iconic for their dazzling spring and summer flowers, there’s a variety to suit your garden

Traditionally, magnolias are pinks and whites, but they also come in creamy or bright yellows, primrose tones and buttery golds. There is also a range of flower shapes; some have narrower petals, giving a more star-like effect, while others are more tulip or goblet shaped. Best of all, now is the perfect time to plan ahead and plant one of these beautiful trees.

Magnolia loebneri This group has a greater tolerance of soil type, though they’re a particularly good choice for gardeners with more alkaline soil. Derived from a combination of M. stellata and M. kobus, both species of which are easy to grow in most conditions. ■ Varieties to try: ‘Pirouette’, ‘Encore’, ‘Green Mist’, ‘Leonard

Messel’ (above inset)

Magnolia stellata

Also known as the star magnolia for its pretty, spidery flower bursts, this is one of the best for a small garden. It’s a compact, slow-growing species (up to about 2.5m). Flowers appear earlier than most but they are more resistant to frost so often look good for most of spring. They also tolerate a wider range of soil conditions.

■ Varieties to try: ‘Gold Star’, ‘Scented Silver’, ‘Rosea’, Jane Platt’

Magnolia sieboldii

These small, deciduous trees flower throughout summer, producing lots of pure white pendulous flowers. Some have unusual double flowers, while others have huge upward-facing blooms but most have an exquisite fragrance.

■ Varieties to try: ‘Pride of Norway’, ‘Colossus’, ‘Min Pyong Gal’

Where to buy

For mail order delivery, call 01823 480774 or visit Junker’s Nursery, www. junker.co.uk. Open by appointment only.

■ Karen writes for Garden News magazine which is packed full of tips, inspiration, plant and product news and great money-saving offers in every issue! On sale every Tuesday, or subscribe for just £4.50 a month. Call 01858 438884 or visit www.greatmagazines.co.uk/ gn and quote AFAA. T&Cs apply