Magnolia Obovata seed

LATIN NAME: MAGNOLIA OBOVATA

COMMON NAME: Japanese Bigleaf Magnolia

The Japanese bigleaf magnolia bowls the huge, creamy-white flowers upright among the very large, broad leaves, the whole tree carrying the bold, tropical-looking presence of the big-leaf magnolias. The flowers open through the late spring and the early summer, each bloom with the thick, fragrant petals, and the red seeds hang on the slender threads from the cone-like fruits in the autumn. The bark stays smooth and grey, and the tree grows into the tall, open crown of the forest tree. It likes the shelter, the deep, rich, moist soil, and the mild, humid air.

Scientific Research & Plant Biotechnology

The magnolias hold a special place in the study of the early flowering plants, and the Japanese bigleaf magnolia appears in that work for the simple, ancient flower structure. The researchers cover the flower biology, the germination and the way the huge leaves are held, while the horticulturists use the species in the breeding of the large-flowered hybrids. The seed-grown trees keep the variable, interesting forms that the collectors enjoy.

Ecological & Economic Value & Wide Applications

In the large, sheltered garden, the Japanese bigleaf magnolia is the tree that stops the visitor. The huge, fragrant flowers open through the early summer, the red seeds feed the birds in the autumn, and the broad leaves give the bold, tropical moment that few trees match. The timber serves the light, local uses in its native forests, and the tree has stood around the temples and the gardens of the East for the ages. Grand, generous and anchoring.

The Japanese bigleaf magnolia seeds start well in a rich, peaty mix kept moist in the cool shade. The plump red seeds rise on the sturdy stems, and they grow on steadily through the warm months. Keep them in the deep pots until the roots fill, then plant them out into the sheltered site with the deep, rich, moist soil. They enjoy the mild, humid climate and the protection from the cold wind. The great leaves come early, and the first flowers take the few years.

To grow the Japanese bigleaf magnolia from seed, sow the plump, red seeds evenly into the seed tray of rich, peaty mix, then cover them lightly, keep the tray in the bright, cool spot and water gently. The seedlings show themselves within a few weeks, and they grow on steadily. Stand the young trees in the sheltered, moist ground, and the great leaves will bowl the garden over the years.