Magnolia is a large, varied genus of deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs. It was named after French botanist Pierre Magnol. Magnolias require deep, fertile, well-drained soil. The roots are fragile so the plant do not transplant readily.
Both the flowers and leaves are highly aromatic and can be used in fragrance production. The flowers from Michelia champaca are used to make the world's most expensive perfume 'Joy'.