Magnolia acuminata

Magnolia acuminata (15/08/2015, Kew Gardens, London)

Position: Full sun to partial shade

Flowering period: Early to mid Summer

Soil: Moist, well drained

Eventual Height: 25m

Eventual Spread: 12m

Hardiness: 2a, 2b, 3a, 3b, 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a

Family: Magnoliaceae

Magnolia acuminata Leaf (15/08/2015, Kew Gardens, London)

Magnolia acuminata is a deciduous tree with a conical habit when young, becoming rounded as it matures. Its mid green leathery leaves are elliptic with undulate margins, up to 22cm long and 10cm broad. Its trunk may achieve a diameter of up to 1.5m. Its grey/ brown bark is cracked and plated. Its fragrant yellow/ green flowers are up to 10cm across. Its fruit is an erect follicetum which is egg shaped, initially green, maturing to pink.

Magnolia acuminata, commonly known as Cucumber Tree or Cucumber Magnolia, is native to northeastern America. In its native habitat it grows in broad leaved forests on low mountain slopes and the rocky banks of streams. Magnolia acuminata is synonymous with Magnolia candollei.

Magnolia acuminata Flower (22/05/2016, Kew Gardens, London)

The etymological root of the binomial name Magnolia was named after Pierre Magnol, a 17th century French botanist.  Acuminata is from the Latin meaning ‘pointed’.

The landscape architect may find Magnolia acuminata useful as a deciduous summer flowering specimen tree. It prefers a sheltered location.

Magnolia acuminata Bark (15/08/2015, Kew Gardens, London)

Ecologically, Magnolia acuminata flowers are attractive to pollinating insects, including bees.

Magnolia acuminata prefers moist, humus rich, well-drained soils. It prefers a neutral to acid pH of soil.

Magnolia acuminata requires little maintenance. Any necessary pruning should be carried out after flowering.

Landscape Architecture