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Magnolia laevifolia
smooth-leaved magnolia
SW China (Yunnan; evergreen broadleaf forests; 3000-8000 ft / 900-2400 m)
Overview
Magnolia laevifolia (syn. Michelia yunnanensis) is a compact, evergreen shrub or small tree reaching 8–15 feet (2.4–4.5 m) tall with a spread of 6–10 feet (1.8–3 m) and a dense, rounded to broadly pyramidal habit. Native to Yunnan, China, this species produces small, cup-shaped, creamy-white flowers 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) across with 6–9 thick, fleshy tepals, heavily fragrant with a sweet banana-like scent. Flowers appear from the leaf axils (not terminally on bare branches) from March through May, often with sporadic rebloom through summer. The alternate, elliptic to obovate leaves are 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long, glossy dark green above with a soft brown velvety pubescence on young growth and the leaf underside—a distinguishing feature. The compact size and dense evergreen habit resemble a camellia more than a typical magnolia. Growth rate is slow to moderate. Hardy to zone 8.
Native Range
Magnolia laevifolia is native to southwestern China—Yunnan Province—in evergreen broadleaf forests and forest margins at 3,000–8,000 feet (900–2,400 m) elevation.Suggested Uses
Planted as a specimen, foundation plant, or container plant at 6–8 foot (1.8–2.4 m) spacing. The compact evergreen habit and small size (8–15 feet) suit small gardens, courtyards, patios, and containers. The banana-scented flowers are borne over an extended season. The brown velvety new growth adds textural interest. Restricted to mild climates (zone 8+) or sheltered microclimates. Not suitable for cold climates, alkaline soils, dry sites, or exposed windy positions.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height8' - 15'
Width/Spread6' - 10'
Reaches mature size in approximately 10 years
Bloom Information
Cup-shaped, creamy-white flowers 2–3 inches (5–8 cm) across with 6–9 thick, fleshy tepals, borne from leaf axils (not terminally). Heavy, sweet banana-like fragrance. Primary bloom March–May with sporadic rebloom through summer. Bloom duration is 6–10 weeks. Individual flowers last 3–5 days.
Detailed Descriptions
Flower Description
Creamy-white; cup-shaped 2-3 inches; 6-9 fleshy tepals; axillary placement; heavy sweet banana-like fragranceFoliage Description
Glossy dark green above, brown velvety pubescence on underside and new growth; alternate elliptic to obovate 2-4 inchesGrowing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 3-8 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in partial shade to full sun in moist, rich, well-drained, acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.5). Hardy to zone 8. Requires a sheltered position protected from cold, drying winds. Tolerates more shade than deciduous magnolias. Mulch the root zone to maintain cool, moist conditions. The compact size suits container culture (minimum 15-gallon). Slow to moderate growth. No significant pest or disease problems.Pruning
Minimal pruning required. The naturally dense, rounded form is self-maintaining. Remove dead or damaged branches after flowering in late spring. Can be lightly shaped to maintain form. Avoid heavy pruning.Pruning Schedule
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
late spring
Container Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 15 gallons