Magnolia X loebneri 'Leonard Messel'

magnolia with pink flowers

Magnolia x loebneri comes from a cross obtained at the beginning of the 20th century between Magnolia kobus and Magnolia stellata. It is a small tree with a conical to spreading habit, with deciduous foliage whose generous flowering occurs even before the end of winter. The pinkish-white starry corollas, 8 to 10 cm in diameter and composed of around thirty petals, appear before the leaves set. They are subtly scented giving off lemony scents. The green foliage turns golden yellow in autumn. The variety 'Leonard Messel' is distinguished by a more compact habit, reduced dimensions and later flowering. Its lilac pink flowers are double and follow dark pink buds.

Generous and early flowering. Double lilac-pink flowers. Golden fall foliage. Good weather resistance. Lemon scent.

It prefers fresh, rich, deep, but very well drained soils. In heavy, humid soil, it is more susceptible to root rot, a fungal disease which causes the roots to dry out. Even if it is very rustic, offer it a sheltered location where a good accumulation of snow occurs in winter. Species sensitive to late frosts at the end of May.