Organic Saucer Magnolia Seeds (Magnolia × Soulangeana)

Organic Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia × Soulangeana)

The Saucer Magnolia originated by chance in 1820, as an accidental seedling in a French garden. The person who described this hybrid gave it its specific scientific name, soulangiana, in honor of the nurseryman, Étienne Soulange-Bodin, in whose garden the tree was found. Because of its colorful and conspicuous flowers, landscape designers use this tree widely as an ornamental.

Often encountered as a medium to large shrub, the saucer magnolia is one of the most dramatic deciduous flowering trees when in bloom. A prolific bloomer, its flowers are large and goblet shaped and cover the naked stems of the tree just before the leaves emerge. The flower buds are big and fuzzy and about 1 in (2 cm) long.

Depending on the variety, the fragrant flowers vary in color from deepest purple to lightest pink to pure white. Some have pure white interiors with exteriors of purple to pink blending with white in various patterns. Each bloom is composed of six waxy petals in a goblet arrangement that ranges in diameter from 3 - 6 in (7.6-15 cm) when fully opened into 'saucer position'.

When choosing a location, keep in mind that the Saucer Magnolia has a moderate growth rate. It grows up to 30 feet in height and 30 feet in spread. It can be planted in zones 6 to 9. Prefers full sun to light shade and deep, acid, moist soil that is rich in organic matter.