Magnolia obovata Seeds | Japanese Bigleaf Magnolia
LATIN NAME: Magnolia obovata
COMMON NAME: Japanese Bigleaf Magnolia
Plant Profile
Japanese Bigleaf Magnolia (Magnolia obovata) grows as a tree. Flowers open through late spring and early summer, each bloom with thick, fragrant petals, and red seeds hang on slender threads from cone-like fruits in the autumn. Bark stays smooth and grey, and tree grows into tall, open crown of forest tree. The blooms are worked steadily by bees for as long as they are open. It is the sort of plant that quietly justifies the space it occupies.
Science & Biotechnology
Within the Magnolia group, Magnolia obovata is of continuing interest to researchers working on plant diversity, seed biology and the selection of improved garden forms. Researchers cover flower biology, germination and way huge leaves are held, while horticulturists use species in breeding of large-flowered hybrids. Breeders and collectors still work with it, so well-kept seed remains available.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Japanese Bigleaf Magnolia has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. In large, sheltered garden, the Japanese bigleaf magnolia is tree that stops the visitor. Huge, fragrant flowers open through early summer, red seeds feed birds in autumn, and broad leaves give bold, tropical moment that few trees match. Timber serves light, local uses in its native forests, and tree has stood around temples and gardens of the East for generations. Once it has its roots down, it more or less looks after itself.
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
Seed is the natural starting point for Japanese Bigleaf Magnolia, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow the seed evenly over the surface and cover lightly, using a loose, well-drained seed compost, and keep it just moist in bright light until the seedlings are well up. 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
Its long record of traditional use, described above, gives the plant a story beyond ornament. The medicinal tradition behind this species, outlined above, is a large part of its interest. Careful watering early on is rewarded by toughness at maturity.
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