Magnolia champaca (Joy Perfume Tree)

Magnolia champaca, commonly known as Champak, Champaca, or Golden Champa, is an evergreen tree in the Magnoliaceae family, native to tropical and subtropical South and Southeast Asia, including the Himalayan foothills and parts of Indochina. Formerly classified as Michelia champaca, it naturally grows into a large forest tree, potentially exceeding 80 feet, although cultivated specimens often remain around 20-40 feet tall. Its glossy, elliptic to lanceolate leaves form a dense crown, while slender, pointed buds open into exceptionally fragrant flowers composed of numerous narrow, fleshy, golden-yellow to orange tepals. Their rich, sweet fragrance becomes especially noticeable during warm, humid evenings. Flowering may continue through much of the year in favorable tropical climates. The blossoms are prized in perfumery and traditionally worn as personal ornaments in parts of Asia. The white-flowered Magnolia x alba is a distinct hybrid, not a color form of M. champaca.

Magnolia champaca grows best in full sun to partial shade, in fertile, moist but well-drained soil, with regular watering during establishment. It prefers warm, humid conditions and is suitable for USDA Zones 10-12. Established trees may tolerate brief, light cold, but prolonged frost can cause serious damage. Young plants can be grown in large containers, although the species eventually needs ample space for its developing crown and root system.

See Article about Tropical Magnolias.

See also Plants with scents as heady as incense: Enchanted Magnolias - Joy in your life...

...Regarded as one of the most sacred trees of India and tropical Asia... Its flowers exude a divine fragrance that is exceedingly pleasing to the Gods... and women! See article about Champaka.