The Heralds of Spring
Magnificent Magnolias: A Spring Showstopper for Every Garden
Magnolias are among the oldest flowering plants on earth, with origins dating back millions of years. Native to the northern hemisphere, most species come from eastern Asia, the West Indies as well as North and Central America.
Few sights are more breathtaking than a deciduous Magnolia in early spring, its bare branches covered in goblets of flowers. These trees are true garden showpieces, adding drama, fragrance, and elegance. Long before bees evolved, Magnolias relied on beetles for pollination - a fascinating trait that continues today, with their fruity fragrance still attracting beetles.
With so many stunning Magnolia varieties to choose from, the hardest part is often deciding which one to take home - but why stop at just one?
At Stoneman’s, we’re proud to offer an incredible range of Magnolia species and cultivars this season, including standout selections from world-renowned breeders like the Jury family of Taranaki, New Zealand. From compact forms perfect for small gardens to large statement trees, there’s a Magnolia to suit every space.
Magnolia Varieties You’ll Love
- Magnolia ‘Vulcan’ – Bred by Felix Jury, this classic cup-and-saucer Magnolia produces rich ruby-red blooms, maturing from mid-pink on young trees to deep tones with age. Grows approx. 3m x 2m in 10 years.
- Magnolia ‘Atlas’ – Famous for its enormous soft pink blooms up to 35cm across. A slightly spreading form, reaching 4m high x 3m wide.
- Magnolia ‘Felix’ – Named in honour of Felix Jury by his son Mark, this variety boasts large red flowers (30–35cm) and has quickly become a favourite worldwide.
- Magnolia ‘Black Tulip’ – Striking goblet-shaped blooms in deep red-black. A compact tree around 3m x 2.5m, perfect for smaller gardens.
- Magnolia ‘Burgundy Star’ – Narrow and upright, with rich burgundy star-shaped flowers. Ideal for vertical accents, reaching 4m x 1.5m.
- Magnolia ‘Royal Purple’ – A compact, upright form by breeder Peter Cave. Stunning blooms with deep purple exteriors and paler interiors.
- Magnolia ‘Galaxy’ – An American introduction from the 1960s, producing soft rose-purple blooms on an elegant 3m x 2m upright tree.
- Magnolia ‘Star Wars’ – A New Zealand cultivar with one of the longest flowering seasons. Produces vibrant pink blooms on a tall, vigorous tree (4m x 3.5m).
- Magnolia ‘Ann’ & ‘Susan’ – Compact members of the “Little Girl” series, bred in the U.S. in the 1950s. Both grow to about 2m x 1.5m, making them perfect as flowering shrubs or for smaller yards.
- Magnolia denudata (Yulan Magnolia) – An ancient Chinese species with pure white goblet flowers. Known as the “Lily Tree,” this slow grower (3m x 2m in 10 years) is truly elegant.
- Magnolia liliiflora ‘Nigra’ – A compact, long-flowering variety with deep purple, orchid-like blooms. Grows 2.5m x 2m, perfect for limited spaces.
- Magnolia × soulangeana – One of the world’s most popular Magnolias, with soft pink goblets brushed with purple. Grows into a 3m x 2.5m multi-stemmed shrub or small tree.
- Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Rustica Rubra’ – A chance seedling with deeper rose-purple blooms, offering a more dramatic take on the classic form.
All of these Magnolias are fragrant, long-lasting, and reliable performers, making them an investment in both beauty and structure for your garden.
Why Plant Magnolias in Tasmanian Gardens?
Magnolias are a perfect choice for Tasmanian gardens, thriving in the state’s cool climate and fertile soils. These deciduous trees and shrubs reward gardeners with spectacular spring blooms, captivating fragrance, and lasting beauty year after year. With their wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, there’s a Magnolia to suit every garden—from towering statement trees to compact shrubs ideal for courtyards.
In Tasmania, one of the most popular and reliable options is the Magnolia x soulangeana hybrid. These hybrids are known for their large, open goblet-shaped flowers, appearing on bare branches in late winter to early spring. Their flowers come in a stunning range of colours - from crisp white to deep, vibrant pinks—making them a versatile and striking addition to gardens of all sizes.
Benefits of Deciduous Magnolias in Tasmania
- Hardy and adaptable – well-suited to Tasmania’s climate and soils.
- Spectacular seasonal display – dramatic flowers appear on leafless branches, creating a true spring highlight.
- Versatile colours and forms – soft whites, rich pinks, and compact or upright habits allow for creative garden design.
Whether you’re planting a statement Magnolia tree in your front yard, adding compact flowering shrubs to a courtyard, or simply looking for a garden showstopper, Magnolias are a timeless, reliable choice for Tasmanian gardeners. Their stunning flowers, fragrance, and adaptability make them a must-have for any garden.
Visit Stoneman’s for Your Perfect Magnolia
At Stoneman’s Garden Centre, we have a fantastic range of deciduous Magnolias ready to plant this season. From classic favourites to rare hybrids, our collection includes something for every gardener.
Come in and explore our range - you’ll find inspiration and expert advice to help you choose the perfect Magnolia for your garden.
