The Lily Tree (Magnolia denudata) is an RHS award-winning deciduous shrub that produces exceptionally pretty flowers. It is considered by many gardeners to be one of the most beautiful shrubs, with cup-shaped blooms that open upright and range from creamy to ivory in color. Blooms occur late winter to early spring, adding much-needed warmth and color to the winter garden. These trees can achieve a mature size of up to 40 feet, making them suitable for larger gardens, or areas with plenty of space to support their eventual size.
Family
The Lily Tree, Magnolia denudata, is a member of the Magnoliaceae family. This means it is closely related to other plants in this family, such as Star Magnolias and Saucer Magnolias.
Plant Type
Magnolia denudata is a deciduous shrub. As a deciduous shrub, the leaves will turn yellow and drop before the winter season, revealing the more interesting bark color of the tree’s trunk.
Mature Size
The mature size of a Lily Tree depends on the growing environment, but they can reach heights of up to 40 feet taller with a 25 foot spread.
Sun Exposure
Lily Trees will display the most vibrant colors and blooms when provided with full sun, though they can tolerate partial shade.
Soil Type
Optimal growth and health of a Lily Tree is when it is planted in well-drained soil, rich in nutrients. Magnolia denudata also prefers a soil pH around neutral 6.0-7.5.
Soil pH
Lily Trees prefer a neutral soil pH, around 6.0-7.5.
Bloom Time
The Lily Tree will bloom late winter to early spring. This makes them a particular favorite for gardeners that want a splash of color when their other plants are sleeping.
Flower Color
Lily Trees are characterized by ultra-pretty cup-shaped blooms that open upright and range in colors from creamy to ivory.
Hardiness Zones
Magnolia denudata, or Lily Trees, are hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Native Area
These trees are native to China, Japan and Korea, but have a wide range of cultivars that are suitable for gardens around the world.
How To Plant
Lily Trees can be planted directly in the ground in your chosen spot, as long as it is well-draining, or in pots and containers. When planting in pots, use a potting mix specially formulated for trees and fertilize annually. Plant in full sun to partial shade. When planting directly in the ground, take care to mark the “planting area” and dig a hole twice the size of the roots of your tree. Fill the hole with soil and gently pat down. Water to ensure the roots are able to absorb the necessary nutrients and continue to water 2-3 times a week. On hot days, amplify the frequency of watering.
Meaning and Symbolism
Lily Trees are not associated with any particular meaning or symbolism; they are appreciated and enjoyed simply for their beauty. The genus name Magnolia is derived from the French botanist Pierre Magnol, who was famous for his work with plants.
History, Mythology, and Religious Significance
Magnolia denudata has a long and rich history in both East Asia and North America. In Japan and China, the Lily Tree has been cultivated for thousands of years. A particular specimen found in the temple of Weiyang, located in the Shaanxi province of China, is believed to be more than 1,400 years old. In North America, the Lily Tree has been used for its strong and durable wood since Native Americans first encountered it in the eighteenth century. There is no mythology or religious significance associated with Lily Trees.
Flower Varieties and Their Defining Characteristics
There are many cultivars of Magnolia denudata, or Lily Trees, including but not limited to Magnolia denudata “Sun Flare”, which is known for its creamy white blooms, Magnolia denudata “Argentea”, which is distinguished by its beige-green flowers, and Magnolia denudata “Silver Cloud”, which produces white to pink blooms.
How to Pot and Repot
When potting your Lily Trees, use a potting mix specifically formulated for trees. The pot should be at least twice the size of the root ball of your tree. Place soil in the pot and gently place the Lily Tree in the center. Make sure to water lightly until the nutrients have been absorbed by the root ball. Do not over-water. To repot, follow the same steps, but make sure to carefully pick the root ball out of the old pot before placing it into the new pot. Make sure to never break the root ball and take extra care when handling the tree.
How to Prune
The best time of year to prune is before the Lily Tree’s flowering season. Prune out any dead, diseased, or weak branches first. Prune any branches that are crossing into other branches and causing damage. To promote fresh shoots, prune any low-hanging branches. Using hand pruners or loppers, make sure to cut at a 45-degree angle.
How to Propagate
When propagating Magnolia denudata, it is best to use stem cuttings as it is known to be more successful than other means of propagation. Make sure to use a sharp and clean pair of pruners to take your stem cuttings. Take the stem cuttings 6 inches long and remove lower leaves. Place the stem cuttings in water and wait until they start to root. Once they have rooted, they can be transplanted into soil. Make sure to use a potting mix specifically designed for trees and keep the soil either damp or moist. Place in direct sunlight or partial shade.
Common pests and diseases
When it comes to pests, Lily Trees are not typically affected by any major issues. The most common pests are aphids and scale, however these can be easily treated with an appropriate insecticide. When it comes to plant diseases, Lily Trees are susceptible to Magnolia Wilt, a fungal pathogen that can affect the canopy and trunk of the tree. Avoid this by planting in well-draining soil.
Three Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best place to plant Magnolia denudata?
A: Lily Trees should be planted in full sun to partial shade in well-draining soil.
Q: How long does it take for a Lily Tree to bloom?
A: Lily Trees typically will bloom late winter to early spring.
Q: What type of pruning should be done on a Lily Tree?
A: Prune any dead, diseased, or weak branches; crossing branches, or low-hanging branches to promote fresh shoots, using hand pruners or loppers, cutting at a 45 degree angle.
Table Fact Sheet
Name | Details |
---|---|
Lily Tree | Magnolia denudata |
Family | Magnoliaceae |
Plant Type | Deciduous shrub |
Mature Size | Up to 40 feet tall |
Sun Exposure | Full sun to partial shade |
Soil Type | Well-draned |
Soil pH | 6.0-7.5 |
Bloom Time | Late winter to early spring |
Flower Color | Creamy to ivory |
Hardiness Zones | USDA zones 7-9 |
Native Area | China, Japan, and Korea |
What we love from Amazon this week
Buy these wonderful flowers directly from Amazon: