Pleached Magnolia grandiflora

The Magnolia grandiflora ‘Galissoniere’ is a wonderful upmarket, evergreen tree. Distinctly individual it is impossible to confuse with any other species This medium sized tree was introduced from America in the early 1700’s where it is common in Florida, Texas and North Carolina. In these areas it reaches heights of 30 meters but in the cooler climates of Britain, it seldom reaches heights over 15m. Instead it has a tendency to become broader rather than tall, a trait caused by reduced temperatures. Some wonderful specimens can be found adorning the exterior walls of stately homes across Britain.

A cultivar of Magnolia which is being used more frequently to create natural instant screens and formal divides. The trees produce an abundance of creamy-white, fragrant flowers which look and smell quite sensational from mid to late summer – July – September. Measuring 20-25cm in length, the flowers are impossible to miss. The distinctly unique, oval to oblong, dark green waxy leaves, with brown velvety undersides, measure 12-20cm on average. Combine the leaves with the smooth bark and this tree gives a distinct air of class. Green fruits arrive after the flowers, oval in shape and velvety to touch, they measure 8-12cm in length.

Where to plant Magnolia grandiflora

Tolerating all soil types except alkaline means this tree is extremely adaptable. Ideally when young it prefers to be planted in a sheltered location along a south facing wall for protection against cold Northerlies. They have however done surprisingly well in the South of England where avid gardeners have been sympathetic to positioning them in suitable locations. The increase in average temperatures also appears to be helping, with large specimens growing unprotected in open ground in the South of England. While winter hardy to an extent it prefers the temperatures not to drop below -12C. It shows a good resistance to wind and tolerates paving and hard landscaping, but it doesn’t like its root plate to be covered completely so some planning will be necessary.

Its best practice to prune these trees once or preferably twice a year to keep their shape and form. Suitable for gardens within a a mile or two of the coast where a small amount of salt is tolerable. Available as High pleached trees, specimen ornamental trees, feathered and clear stemmed trees and specimen shrubs. Suitable for large and small gardens and available in pots and containers while stocks last.