Bigleaf Magnolia
magnolia macrophylla
Also known as: ["Largeleaf Magnolia","Large-leaved Magnolia"]
Overview
A deciduous tree known for its large, showy leaves and fragrant flowers.
Benefits & Perks
["fragrant flowers","aesthetic foliage","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Magnoliales |
| Family: | Magnoliaceae |
| Genus: | Magnolia |
| Botanical Name: | Magnolia macrophylla |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: protected garden area with dappled light, suitable for USDA zones 6–9
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"6–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate; selective removal of up to 20% of growth per year.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Partial shade to full sun (4–6 hours of morning sun with afternoon protection); tolerates dappled light in hotter climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sun; protect from harsh afternoon rays; place in filtered light indoors or in a sheltered outdoor spot.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun with protection from harsh afternoon sun
Avoid intense midday sun; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
rich, moist, well-draining loam with organic matter
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage; amend with organic matter; maintain consistent moisture.
Temperature
Prefers 60–75°F (15–24°C); tolerates cooler temperatures but avoids frost; thrives in moderate humidity.
Protect from frost; avoid sudden temperature changes; maintain moderate humidity.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing; water before applying fertilizer.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood or semi-hardwood cuttings; layering is also effective.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings, apply rooting hormone, plant in medium, maintain humidity, and wait for roots.
Best Time: Late spring to early summer when new growth is present.
Environment
High humidity (70–90%), warm temperatures (70–75°F), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat-based mix with perlite or sand for good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for faster and more reliable rooting.
Timeline
Roots may develop in 4–8 weeks; establishment takes 6–12 months.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, propagation tray, humidity dome, and rooting medium.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to encourage bushier growth.
Pruning Plan
Remove dead or damaged branches, shape the plant, and encourage airflow to reduce disease risk.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, and a pruning saw for larger branches.
Checklist
Sterilize tools, prune during dormancy, remove deadwood, shape evenly, and clean up debris.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth starts.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter; ensure good drainage.
Method
Remove plant gently, trim roots if needed, place in fresh soil mix, and water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container; beneficial for nutrient replenishment and root health.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot, prepare new soil, inspect roots, prune if necessary, and water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture, water deeply, ensure drainage, adjust seasonally.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Apply slowly to allow absorption, and ensure excess water drains away to prevent root rot.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once per week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture retention.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure for fertility; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, leaf drop or browning in cold stress, stunted growth in temperature extremes.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn yellow, or drop; growth slows or halts; potential frost damage to buds and young growth.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch; move container plants indoors; avoid sudden temperature drops.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, reduced flowering, and increased susceptibility to pests due to dehydration.
Solution: Provide shade, increase watering, use mulch to retain moisture, and ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer, apply during growing season, water before and after, avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring; dilute liquid fertilizer to half-strength monthly during growing season; reduce or stop in winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicMagnolia macrophylla is not considered toxic to cats. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this species when ingested or handled by cats.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Dogs
Non-toxicMagnolia macrophylla is not considered toxic to dogs. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this species when ingested or handled by dogs.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Humans
Non-toxicMagnolia macrophylla is not considered toxic to humans under normal circumstances. There are no known toxic effects or physiological impacts associated with this species.
⚡ Toxic If:
Generally not toxic
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How tall does the Bigleaf Magnolia grow?
A: It can grow up to 20-30 meters (65-100 feet) tall.
Q: Does it require full sun?
A: It prefers partial shade to full sun, especially in warmer climates.
Q: Is it suitable for small gardens?
A: No, due to its large size, it is best suited for spacious landscapes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Magnoliaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun with |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
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