What: All winter long, Magnolia x loebneri “Leonard Messel” is covered with large fuzzy buds full of promise of a sparkling spring show. In early spring, the buds open to reveal a delicate display of soft pink flowers. The strap-like petals drape over the branch and quiver in the slightest breeze. Once the flowers have passed, rich green foliage gives a tidy appearance through the growing season. The small stature makes it an excellent choice for the urban landscape. Easily grown as either a single truck or multiple-trunk specimen, it adds a natural grace in the garden. The compact scale of the tree make it a good choice for around patios and it combines well with rhododendrons, azaleas and compact shrubs. Under plant with spring bulbs or hellebores to enhance the spring show.
Where: The pink lobner magnolia is easy to grow. It flowers best when planted in full sun to light or open shade. It will thrive in a rich moist to well-drained soil, but will tolerate sand and clay if the drainage is adequate. Plant in an area that is protected from strong winds to help the flowers last their longest and keep the young foliage from being damaged.
Size: This magnolia will grow to be 20 feet tall and 18 feet wide when mature.
Care: Regular summer water will allow the best flowering and healthiest growth, but well-established plants can tolerate occasional watering during dry weather. Magnolias have fleshy roots that can easily be damaged, so limit extensive gardening under established trees. Little pruning is required, other than removing dead and broken limbs or poorly formed limbs. Pruning is best done after flowering.
— Richie Steffen, Great Plant Picks
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