Him Champa
Family
Magnoliaceae
Origin
South East United States
Description
Fast growing, evergreen tree. Can become a large tree (up to 90 feet in height) but responds well to pruning to keep its height down. The very large white fragrant flowers contrast with the shiny green foliage. In most parts of India, Magnolias are grown only in selected well maintained gardens. In Manipur, Magnolias are commonly grown-The Manipuri name ootahmbai means tree lotus - flowers are used as offering in puja
Environment
Magnolia Grandiflora is quite easy to plant. All they need is light, well-drained, acidic soil with equal moisture throughout the year. Once established they can do with occasional drought but will not look as nice as the ones with regular watering. Just pay attention to how to plant your magnolia.
First, find it a spot where it will live forever and ever. It does not like transplanting. And as it makes shallow roots reaching well over its spread stay away from disturbing the roots by digging or messing about around it. Just cover the soil with bark mulch and do not plant anything else near it after say the second year after planting onwards. You could damage the very important top roots that absorb maximum moisture and nutrients from the soil. Also, avoid planting magnolia too deep. It is fully hardy to -27°C and supposed to survive -29°C
Landscape Use
Specimen or backdrop tree.
