Magnolia × soulangeana

Magnolia × soulangeana is the one everyone pictures when they think of a magnolia in bloom. Before the leaves unfurl in April, the whole crown is lit up with huge goblet-shaped flowers, white inside and flushed pink to purple on the outside, carried at the branch tips.

It forms a broad, spreading small tree with multiple stems, eventually reaching around 6 to 9m tall and wider. Large glossy green leaves come after the flowers and turn yellow in autumn.

Plant in a sheltered spot with full sun to partial shade, in deep, moist but well-drained soil, ideally neutral to slightly acidic. Avoid frost pockets, as late frosts can brown the flowers. Very little pruning needed.

A cracking specimen tree for a lawn, a large front garden, or the centrepiece of a spring scheme.