Magnolia grandiflora 'Ferruginea' - evergreen foliage, huge, fragrant flowers (young specimens)

Magnolia grandiflora 'Ferruginea' is a cultivar originally from America, introduced in 1804. It was evaluated in various climatic regions and showed resistance and adaptability in European climatic conditions.

Magnolia 'Ferruginea' stands out for its large, approximately 24-26 cm, creamy white flowers , shaped like lotus flowers. Their perfume not only attracts insects, such as bees, but also most perfumers. In particular, during the early evenings and late afternoons, it emits a sweet, citrusy smell that extends into the distance. Although a flower only lasts a day or two, it is quickly replaced, so the tree blooms from June to September . The more developed the plant is, the more flowers it produces.

Its foliage consists of large leaves, with lengths between 15-18 cm and widths of 8-10 cm. They are shiny, of an intense green color and are covered on the back with a fluffy layer of brown color, which protects them from the wind. The young leaves have a brownish-reddish tinge. It grows naturally as a dense, oval or round shrub, but it can also be formed as a medium-sized tree with a round crown.

It does not require cutting to thicken, branching evenly. Cutting could remove flower buds that form at the tips of old branches, usually from the previous year. If pruning is needed, this should be done in April, before flowering in May.

It is resistant to diseases and pests and prefers well-drained soils with a neutral or slightly acidic pH.

Cold resistance : withstands up to -20°C. It is preferable to be planted in areas protected from strong air currents, for a pleasant appearance of the foliage.