Michelia yunnanensis is
still the name most often used by the nurseries but the taxonomists have
grouped all of the genera of the Magnolia family into the Magnolia genus
and renamed Michelia yunnanensi to Magnolia dianica. In any case
Michelia yunnanensis is a large tree or small shrub from Southern China,
slowly growing to 6-12 feet tall and wide. The dense dark green
foliage can readily be trimmed to keep Michelia yunnanensis as a hedge or
even to trim it as a topiary. Michelia yunnanensis blooms in the
late Winter and into the Early Spring. The 1.5" white
flowers striking against the dark green foliage. The soft
pleasant scent is alluring, not overpowering as can be the case with some
of the Banana Bushes. Cinnamon hairs cover the sepals and new
foliage giving the plant interest throughout the year. Michelia
yunnanensis is slow growing and is an easily controlled long term
container plant. Plants are hardy at least into the high 20's and
probably into the high teens as plants have survived in the Seattle area
as well. Michelia yunnanensis should be grown in full sun or light
shade and provided with a moderate water supply.
High resolution Images of the
Michelia yunnanensis are available.
