Magnolia watsonii
Location
The Magnolia Garden.
Description:
An uncommon large wide-spreading deciduous shrub 3m (10ft) x 3m (10ft) with dark green, ovate leaves also known as M. wieseneri. It is a cross between M. sieboldii and M.obovata. Its most notable feature is the remarkable fragrance of the ivory-coloured flowers, which has been likened to spicy pineapple. The flowers are cup-shaped at first, with a diameter of 10-12.5 cm (4-5 in), before flattening out to a diameter of 15-20 cm (6-8 in) after a few days.
Site and Care:
Best in partial shade they are moderately lime-tolerant but here they grow in a seam of acid clay a medium they thrive in. Little or no pruning is required unless for shape. Propagation is normally by layering.