Magnolia kobus Seeds | Kobus Magnolia
LATIN NAME: Magnolia kobus
COMMON NAME: Kobus Magnolia, Kobushi Magnolia, Northern Japanese Magnolia
Plant Profile
Kobus Magnolia (Magnolia kobus) grows as a tree, native to Japan and korea. Kobus magnolia is one of hardiest and loveliest of magnolias, and its white, fragrant flowers are among the first to open in the early spring. In Japan it is known as kobushi, and its flowers and flower buds have been cooked and eaten, while older leaves are powdered and used as a flavouring. Given room and time, it reaches roughly Fifteen metres. Taken as a whole, it is a plant that repays a little attention many times over.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the Magnolia group, Magnolia kobus draws steady attention from botanists and plant breeders, who value the genus both as a subject of research and as a source of garden-worthy material. Species has also been studied in ecology, since it is a native of woodlands of Japan and Korea, and its growth and its role in woodland community have been examined. The upshot for anyone sowing it is reassurance — cultivated stock of this plant has a long, well-documented track record.
Uses & Benefits
In the garden, Kobus Magnolia earns its place in borders, containers and mixed plantings, and it also rewards growers who raise plants for cutting, drying or kitchen use. Ecologically, kobus magnolia is a generous tree of early spring. Its white flowers feed early bees and insects, its red seeds feed birds, and its broad crown gives shelter, while it is a beloved presence in woodlands and gardens of temperate world. Thereafter it wants only the ordinary attentions any garden plant receives.
Magnolia bark, Hou Po, is a major Chinese herb for moving qi, easing fullness and calming wheeze, and its honokiol and magnolol are among the most studied natural anxiolytic compounds, now appearing in modern supplements and even toothpaste.
Growing from Seed
Kobus Magnolia is one of those generous plants that come along well from seed. A simple routine works well: sow evenly over the surface and cover lightly in a loose, well-drained seed compost, maintain even moisture, and provide bright light. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
Kobus Magnolia, Kobushi Magnolia, Northern Japanese Magnolia earns its space through character rather than fuss. In a sunny, freely drained position it needs little looking after.
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