Chinese Michelia

(Magnolia foveolata)

Chinese Michelia (Magnolia foveolata)

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Summary

Magnolia foveolata, commonly known as Chinese Michelia, is an evergreen tree native to subtropical forests and mountainous regions in Southeastern China and Northern Vietnam. It typically grows to a height of 15-20 feet (5-6 meters) and a width of 10-15 feet (3-4.6 meters). The tree has a compact, pyramidal form with glossy, dark green leaves that provide a lush backdrop for its flowers. The blooms, which appear in the spring, are cup-shaped and creamy white with a pale yellow center, emitting a light, sweet fragrance that can be quite enchanting. The flowers are considered showy due to their size and the contrast they create against the foliage.

Chinese Michelia is valued for its fragrant flowers and attractive evergreen foliage, making it a popular choice for ornamental plantings in gardens and parks. It is also used as a specimen tree or for screening purposes. This tree requires consistently moist soil with good drainage and thrives in full sun to part shade. While it is relatively low-maintenance, it may need protection from strong winds. There are no major disease problems, but it can be susceptible to scale insects and sooty mold. It is not known for aggressive roots or significant invasiveness issues.CC BY-SA 4.0

Plant Description

  • Plant Type: Tree
  • Height: 15-20 feet
  • Width: 10-15 feet
  • Growth Rate: Moderate
  • Flower Color: Yellow, White, Green
  • Flowering Season: Spring
  • Leaf Retention: Evergreen

Growth Requirements

  • Sun: Full Sun, Part Shade
  • Water: High
  • Drainage: Medium

Common Uses

Bee Garden, Bird Garden, Butterfly Garden, Deer Resistant, Fragrant, Showy Flowers

Natural Habitat

Subtropical forests and mountainous regions in Southeastern China and Northern Vietnam

Other Names

Common Names:

Scientific Names: , Michelia foveolata, Magnolia foveolata, Michelia fulgens, Michelia foveolata var. cinerascens, Michelia aenea, Michelia longistyla, Magnolia aenea, Magnolia xinningia, Michelia foveolata var. xiangnanensis

GBIF Accepted Name: Magnolia foveolata (Merr. ex Dandy) Figlar