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Plant Profiles / Saucer magnolia
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Saucer magnolia
Magnolia × soulangeana · Tulip tree, Chinese magnolia
Huge goblet-shaped pink and white flowers cover bare branches in late winter, before the leaves appear.
Full sun to part shadeLight
WeeklyWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Full sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Shelter from strong wind.
Water
Weekly
DryWet
Keep evenly moist.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
-15–35°C (5–95°F)
CoolWarm
Hardy; late frost can mark flowers.
Growth
Moderate
SlowFast
Grows 5–8 m.
Soil
Rich, slightly acidic soil
LeanRich
Quality mix with compost.
Fertiliser
Spring
RarelyOften
Fertiliser for acid-loving plants.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Non-toxic to pets.
About this plant
A French-bred hybrid, saucer magnolia is one of the most loved flowering trees. It grows into a small, spreading tree and suits large pots when young.
Best spots
Front gardens, courtyards and large feature pots.
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Magnolia × soulangeana |
| Family | Magnoliaceae |
| Origin | Garden hybrid |
| Plant type | Deciduous tree |
| Mature size | 5–8 m |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Flowers | Pink and white goblets |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Grafting or layering |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Plant
Flowering
Prune
Fertilise
PlantFloweringPruneFertilise
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Browned flowers | Frost or wind. |
| No flowers | Too young or pruned late. |
| Yellow leaves | Alkaline soil. |
| Scale | Treat with oil. |
Common questions
When does it flower?
Late winter to early spring.
Is it pet safe?
Yes.
Can it grow in a pot?
Yes, when young.
When to prune?
Right after flowering.
