Magnolia multiflora Seeds | Many-flowered Magnolia
LATIN NAME: Magnolia multiflora
COMMON NAME: Many-flowered Magnolia
Plant Profile
Many-flowered Magnolia (Magnolia multiflora) is a tree in the magnolia family. Flowers open in late spring, large and fragrant, and cone-like clusters of red seeds follow through the autumn. Bark stays smooth and grey, crown fills out with handsome foliage, and tree holds its place as one of great garden magnolias. Pollinating insects take to the flowers at once, adding a little wildlife interest to its garden value. These traits together are what have kept the plant in gardens for so long.
Science & Biotechnology
Magnolia multiflora sits in the magnolia family, a group that keeps botanists, horticulturists and plant breeders busy with questions of classification, adaptation and ornamental potential. Magnolias sit near base of flowering-plant family tree, and many-flowered species appears in studies of flower evolution for simple, ancient structure. Continuing work by breeders and collectors keeps good seed of this species moving through the trade.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Many-flowered Magnolia has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. In sheltered garden, many-flowered magnolia is the centrepiece. Large, creamy flowers open fragrant in late spring, red seeds feed birds in autumn, and glossy foliage holds its elegance through the year. Bark and buds of related magnolias have served traditional medicine, and larger species yield useful timber. It takes hold quickly and asks for no special treatment from then on.
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
Starting Many-flowered Magnolia from seed is simple and satisfying. Scatter the seed evenly over a loose seed compost, cover to no more than its own depth, and keep the pot moist and bright. Pot the young plants on as they grow, harden them off gradually, and plant them into their final positions when sturdy.
Our Take
Many-flowered Magnolia has real presence in the garden without demanding much in return. Once the young plants are away, there is little left to do but watch them grow.
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