Magnolia lotungensis Seeds | Lotung Magnolia
LATIN NAME: Magnolia lotungensis
COMMON NAME: Lotung Magnolia
Plant Profile
Lotung Magnolia (Magnolia lotungensis) is a tall, stately, evergreen tree in the magnolia family, native to a limited region of southern China, and researchers have examined its wild populations. In evergreen forests of the southern island, the Lotung magnolia grows as a tall, stately, evergreen tree with large, glossy, leathery leaves and creamy-white, cup-shaped flowers that open in late spring, red-coated seed clusters following in the autumn. Growth is steadily, plant forming a rounded crown that reaches 5-10 metres. Choose full sun and deep, fertile ground for this plant. The blooms are worked steadily by bees for as long as they are open. Each of these traits is modest on its own; together they make a garden-worthy plant.
Science & Biotechnology
Like other members of the magnolia family, Magnolia lotungensis 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. For a tree of such ancient lineage and such modern promise, the eastern joy lotus tree has a steady and growing record of research. Species like this one find a second career as research material, especially in propagation and breeding work.
Uses & Benefits
Gardeners value Lotung Magnolia for its ornamental character, and the plant also fits naturally into herb, vegetable and cutting gardens. Ecologically, the eastern joy lotus tree is a valuable tree of the southern Chinese forest. Its fragrant flowers feed bees and other pollinators, its seeds feed birds, and its dense evergreen canopy gives shelter for wildlife throughout the year. Its economic value lies mainly in horticulture and urban forestry. Once settled, it thrives on neglect more than on fussing.
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
Lotung Magnolia grows readily from seed. Growing an eastern joy lotus tree from seed is easy and very rewarding. Seeds sit inside cone-like fruiting heads that follow flowers, and they are best sown fresh, since they lose vigour quickly. 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 full sun. Prick the seedlings out once they are large enough to handle, grow them on in bright light, and plant out when conditions allow.
Our Take
Lotung Magnolia repays a little patience at sowing time with plenty of garden presence later.
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