Species magnolia
pink-white flowers with blackish-brown, rough stems, and green, small, shiny leaves

magnolia

Magnolia 'Betty'

The magnolia 'Betty' is a deciduous flowering tree that is native to East Asia. It is a medium to large tree with clusters of deep pink, fragrant blooms appearing in late spring. The flowers are cup-shaped and up to 5 inches wide. Not only are they beautiful, but they smell heavenly. The magnolia 'Betty' is an elegant and unusual addition to any landscape offering year round aesthetic value. Its spreading branches, grey-green foliage and large blooms make it an attractive focal point in many settings. The fast growth rate and spectacular spring flowers make this a must-have variety.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Air Layering Propagation,Grafting Propagation,Stem Propagation,Root Cutting,Division,Seed Propagation

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

Reddish-purple with white interior Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

High

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

High

watering

For best results, the Magnolia 'Betty' should be watered weekly, thoroughly saturating the soil so that it is moist but not soggy. It is best to water in the morning to reduce the risk of mildew and other fungal diseases. During dry weather you may need to water more regularly, while in winter you can reduce the frequency to once a fortnight. Be sure to check the soil moisture before watering, and make sure not to leave any excess water in the saucer beneath the plant.

sunlight

For best performance, Magnolia 'Betty' should receive at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight or 8 hours of filtered, indirect light each day. If your plant is in an area that receives partial shade for part of the day, try moving it a bit to increase its exposure to sunlight. Placing the Magnolia in an area that does not receive direct sun at midday may also help with heat stress, while still allowing it to receive the necessary amount of sunlight throughout the day.

pruning

Magnolia 'Betty' should be pruned in the early spring and late winter, when it is dormant. This pruning should only be minimal, as it is not a vigorous grower and does not require a lot of maintenance. Prune any dead, diseased, or crossing branches and to thin out when necessary for shape. Pruning will help create good form and encourage more flowers on the shrub each year. Avoid pruning more than 25% of the shrub at 1 time.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Magnolia 'Betty' typically starts flowering in April.

Hardiness Map

FAQ

Is Magnolia a deciduous or evergreen plant?

Magnolia is a deciduous plant, meaning it drops its leaves annually. It is part of the Magnoliaceae family and has over 80 species found in the Northern Hemisphere. The large, showy flowers bloom in a wide range of colors from white to purple and appear before the foliage emerges in the spring. Depending on the species, some Magnolia trees may hold their leaves through the winter and drop them just before new growth emerges in the spring.

Are all Magnolia flowers fragrant?

No, not all Magnolia flowers are fragrant. Some, like the Star or Saucer Magnolias, are fragrant while others, such as the Loebner Magnolia, are not. There are over 200 species of magnolias, and not every one produces a scented bloom. Some magnolia flowers, however, have an unmistakable sweet smell. It is best to do research on the species of magnolias you are growing to determine if its flowers are fragrant or not.

Is Magnolia a good plant for attracting wildlife?

Yes, Magnolia is an excellent plant for attracting wildlife. Not only does it provide bright and fragrant blooms for pollinators to enjoy, but its large leaves provide protection for birds seeking a safe place to nest. Its multiple saucer-shaped blooms open up quickly in early spring, in turn providing a rich source of nectar for a variety of bees and butterflies. Additionally, many Magnolia trees produce a sweet sap that can be used to attract hummingbirds and other birds that are especially fond of the sugary treat.

Are there different varieties of Magnolia?

Yes, there are different varieties of Magnolia. There are more than 100 species of Magnolia that have been identified. These different types of Magnolias vary in size, shape, colour and form, giving gardeners the opportunity to choose from a wide range of plants for their gardens. Popular varieties include the Southern Magnolia, Star Magnolia, Saucer Magnolia, Genus Magnolia and Umbrella Magnolia. Each of these varieties offer something different and beautiful for a variety of landscapes.

Can Magnolia be propagated by cuttings?

Yes, magnolia can be propagated by cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from the stems of juvenile (2 years old or younger) plants, making sure to include one to two nodes. The nodes are the small bumps located on the stem where leafy shoots will emerge. The cuttings should then be immediately placed in a damp potting medium, such as sandy soil. If desired, one can also dip the cutting into rooting hormone prior to planting to speed the growth of roots. Properly watered and placed in indirect light, the cutting should begin producing roots in 4 to 6 weeks.

Could Magnolia be trained to grow on a trellis?

Yes, Magnolia can be trained to grow on a trellis. Establish a strong and sturdy trellis in a spot with full or partial sun and make sure it is in an area with good airflow. Plant the Magnolia tree at least two feet away from the trellis. When it starts to grow and get tall, train it to grow up the trellis by tying stems to the trellis and pruning the lower branches off. With routine training and pruning, it can be trained to the shape and height desired in no time.

Can Magnolia tolerate drought conditions?

Yes, Magnolia trees can tolerate drought conditions. They have relatively deep root systems which help them access water that is deeper in the soil, and they are often more drought-tolerant than many other plants. To help them during periods of drought, you should mulch around the base of the tree and keep it well-watered.

Can Magnolia be grown in a coastal area?

Yes, Magnolia can be grown in a coastal area. It is tolerant of salt spray and wet soils, making it an ideal choice for coastal gardens. Magnolia prefers well-drained soils, with pH levels of 6 to 7. When planting near the coast, make sure to select a variety that is suited to your climate and and give it plenty of space to grow. Using organic mulch and watering deeply during dry periods can also help protect the tree and keep it healthy.