Magnolia cylindrica (Huang-shan Magnolia )

Botanical name: Magnolia cylindrica

Common name: Huang-shan Magnolia

Origin: China

The Huang-shan magnolia, also known as Magnolia Cylindrica, is an attractive and hardy plant that can grow into a moderately large shrub or a small tree, reaching heights of 5-10 ft and 10-20 ft, respectively. The plant thrives in full sun or semi-shade and requires regular, but moderate watering. Its flowers are large, fragrant, and white or off-white in color.

While the Huang-shan magnolia can be grown in USDA zones 7-10 with little effort, it is worth noting that in colder regions, it is best to grow it in a pot to have more control over the temperature. In this case, the plant should be kept in a pot with near-neutral soil and placed indoors during winter. Regular watering and fertilizing are also essential when the plant is grown in a pot.

Endemic to China, the Huang-shan magnolia is named after Mount Huang, where it can be found growing naturally. Sadly, this plant is threatened by habitat loss. It is a deciduous shrub or small tree with thin, lanceolate, dark green leaves. The cup-shaped flowers are pure white and fragrant, and they appear before the young leaves in early spring. The plant produces cylindrical-shaped fruits. The flowering period is typically from March to April, although some species may bloom as late as September.