The species Magnolia wilsonii has large white saucer-shaped flowers, up to 10cm across, with prominent staments. The flowers have a characteristic drooping habit, and a strong fragrance.
Unusually among Magnolias, the leaves and flowers appear at about the same time - in most Magnolias the flowers appear well in advance of the leaves.
After the flowers Magnolia wilsonii often produces cylindrical fruit pods in the autumn.
Its bark and flowers are used in Chinese medicine.
Magnolia wilsonii is capable of eventually reaching 5m in UK conditions. It does best in partial shade.
This species of Magnolia is named after E.H. Wilson, who discovered it in China in 1904.
This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2023.