Everything you ever wanted to know about the magnolia shrub
There are over 200 different kinds of magnolia, most of which can either be a tree or a magnolia shrub. This type of plant is grown all over the world, but there are three types of magnolia shrub which are most commonly found.
Most common types
The most common type of magnolia is probably the star magnolia. This plant is native to Japan, and it grows to be about 15 or 20 feet tall. The reason for its name is because the flowers grow in tiny star shapes. The flowers are either pink or white, and they will bloom in either April or May.
The second most common type of magnolia shrub is the magnolia soulangeana. This plant is actually a hybrid, and it can grow to be 20 to 25 feet tall. The flowers from this type of magnolia plant can be white, pink, or purple, and they grow to be very large, as big as a foot across in some cases.
The third most common type of magnolia is the magnolia grandiflora. This species of magnolia is native to the southern United States, and it is really more of a tree than a shrub, but it can grow to be 90 feet tall. It’s also evergreen, which makes it the perfect solution for some color in a winter landscape.
Important facts about growing magnolias
The beautiful thing about magnolias (other than their flowers) is how easy they are to grow. Magnolias will grow either in full sun or partial shade. The only thing to keep in mind when you’re planting magnolias is that they tend to be very fragile, which means wind will damage the blooms if you plant them in an open, windy area. The best kind of soil for this type of plant is moist but well-drained and slightly acidic. However, if your soil is more alkaline or neutral, you will still find plenty of success growing magnolias.
Another thing to remember when you get ready to plant magnolias is the time of year. Different varieties of magnolias will need to be planted at different times of the year. Evergreen magnolias like the magnolia grandiflora should be planted in the early spring. However, magnolia bushes can be planted in either the fall or the spring. If you live in a northern climate, you should opt for spring planting, but if you live in a southern climate, then you should plan to plant your magnolia bush in the fall.
Caring for your magnolias
After you’ve planted your magnolias, you will have to do a bit to take care of them, although not as much as some other types of plants. The main thing to remember is that you will need to prune your magnolias just a bit after they are finished flowering. This will help keep your plant the right size and shape. Also don’t forget to give your magnolia plant the proper nutrients by supplying it with feed, mulch, and peat in the early spring.