Michelia Figo - Port Wine Magnolia

Description:
Michelia figo, commonly known as the Port Wine Magnolia, is a dense, evergreen shrub or small tree valued for its glossy green foliage and exquisitely fragrant, cup-shaped flowers. Its compact growth habit and intoxicating fragrance make it a perfect choice for hedges, screens, or as a specimen plant in formal and informal garden designs.

Flowers:
The flowers are small, creamy-yellow to purple-maroon, and appear from late winter through early summer. They emit a powerful, sweet fragrance reminiscent of port wine or ripe bananas, especially in the evenings, making them a highlight of any garden.

Foliage:
The foliage consists of oval-shaped, dark green, glossy leaves that form a dense and lush canopy. The leaves provide an elegant, year-round backdrop for the plant's fragrant blooms.

Fruit:
Following the flowers, small, inconspicuous fruit capsules may appear. These are rarely a significant ornamental feature.

Form and Size:
Michelia figo typically grows to a height of 3–4 meters and a width of 2–3 meters, with a naturally compact, bushy form. It can be easily pruned to maintain a desired size and shape.

Growing Conditions:

• Position: Prefers full sun to partial shade. It thrives in a sheltered position protected from strong winds, which can damage its delicate flowers.
• Soil: Best grown in rich, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. It benefits from soil that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged.
• Watering: Requires regular watering during establishment and benefits from consistent moisture during dry periods.
• Climate: Suited to temperate, subtropical, and tropical climates. It tolerates light frosts but performs best in warm, humid environments.

Uses:
Port Wine Magnolia is ideal for use as a dense hedge, screen, or topiary. It is also well-suited for courtyard gardens, patios, and as a feature plant near outdoor living areas where its fragrance can be enjoyed.

Maintenance:

• Prune lightly after flowering to maintain shape and encourage dense growth.
• Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring for healthy growth and flowering.
• Mulch around the base to conserve soil moisture and suppress weeds.
• Protect from heavy frost and harsh winds for optimal health and appearance.

Notes:
Michelia figo is a slow-growing plant, making it an excellent choice for gardeners who appreciate low-maintenance, long-term beauty. Its exquisite fragrance adds sensory appeal, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas like pathways and entrances.

Companion Plants:
Pair with Camellias, Gardenias, or Rhododendrons for complementary textures and blooms. It also works well alongside other evergreen shrubs or as part of a mixed border with seasonal flowering plants like Azaleas.

Common Name: Port Wine Magnolia
Botanical Name: Michelia figo
Family: Magnoliaceae
Origin: China

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