Magnolia Soulangeana

Magnolia Soulangeana is often referred to as the Chinese Magnolia or the Saucer Magnolia (also Chinese Saucer Magnolia). Magnolia Soulangeana is a medium to large Magnolia shrub or tree with large bushy leaves. Over the years, this magnolia takes on a tree-like appearance. This magnolia is deciduous, therefore it loses its leaves over the winter months. The large foliage is dark green from spring to late autumn. The Chinese Saucer Magnolia is prized for its gorgeous goblet shaped flowers that are white with pink tinges. Magnolia Soulangeana is an early blooming variety of Magnolia and its large, showy, flowers in hues of pink, purple and whites are a delight to behold in the garden as winter turns to spring. Fully hardy, magnolias are almost essential in any garden providing colourful attractive flowers in the early spring months of the year from March to April.

How Hardy Is Magnolia Soulangeana
Chinese Saucer Magnolia is one of the hardiest magnolias available in the UK. It will survive in sub-zero temperatures and flower in the spring provided it is not placed in a waterlogged spot. All magnolia flowers need some protection from cold winds, so it is best to place yours in a sheltered area. 

How To Use Magnolia Soulangeana
Perfect for brightening an early spring garden Magnolia Soulangeana makes a magnificent specimen shrub in the lawn or flower border. Position yours so you can see it from a window as it tends to flower when spring is still chilly. Position snowdrops and primroses beneath for a stunning spring show.
You can grow Chinese Saucer Magnolia in a deep container if you have very chalky soil or struggle for room. Make sure you water and feed it regularly. 

How To Care For Magnolia Soulangeana
All magnolias prefer moist but well-drained neutral to acidic soils. If you have alkaline soil this is the best magnolia to use as it will tolerate alkaline conditions. If your soil is very alkaline or chalky, prepare the planting hole with lots of organic matter and top it up every year to make sure Magnolia Soulangeana receives the right nutrients. 
Position Chinese Saucer Magnolia in a sunny spot that’s protected from harsh winds and it’ll produce a stunning flower show every year with little care on your behalf. 
If you are looking for a spring flowering shrub, Magnolia Soulangeana the ‘saucer magnolia’ is one of the best. It remains a manageable size even when full grown, looks stunning and will reliably flower each spring despite the winter conditions. 

Other Spring flowering magnolias include the stunning pure white star shaped Magnolia Stellata.