Magnolia sieboldii Colossus

The Magnolia sieboldii Colossus is a beautiful improvement of the Siebold Magnolia, more adapted to the sun, with faster growth, capable of flowering at a young age. Slightly shorter than the original species, this variety also has larger leaves and very beautiful fragrant pendulous flowers, semi-double to double. It is an unusual small tree, with a wide habit, exotic appearance, which will seduce enthusiasts of magnolias.

The Magnolia sieboldii Colossus is a horticultural selection by Dr. Augie Kehr from June 1997. The botanical species, native to East Asia, is sensitive to heat and sun. It is a small tree that has a spreading habit, more wide than tall. The Colossus variety, slightly smaller, reaches about 7-8 m (23-26ft) in height and 10-11 m (33-36ft) in spread. The plant has obovate leaves, of medium green, measuring 15 to 30 cm (6 to 12in) long and 10 to 15 cm (4 to 6in) wide. Flowering occurs from May to July. The pure white flowers, adorned at the center with a large cluster of pinkish-purple stamens, are initially upright and then bend towards the ground. Composed of 10 to 15 white petals, they form a bell-shaped flower reaching 15 cm (6 in) in diameter. In the center, there is a crown of dark pinkish-purple stamens, very decorative. These flowers withstand harsh weather conditions very well and emit a light citrus fragrance. After pollination, large fruits form and turn pink in autumn. The deciduous foliage turns yellow in autumn before falling.

Completely hardy, this Magnolia Colossus requires a moist, light and humus-rich soil, as it does not tolerate limestone well. It is best displayed as a standalone specimen or in the back of a border. This superb plant also pairs well with flowering dogwoods and anemone trees, which appreciate the same environments.