The fruit of the magnolia is not edible - but it provides many wonderful seeds

The fruit of the magnolia is not edible - but it provides many wonderful seeds

Magnolia has impressive fruits

The fruits of the magnolia are so-called follicles, a form of seed encapsulation that emerged very early in evolution. The shape of the magnolia fruits is very similar to a pine cone and, depending on the variety, is usually surrounded by brown to red flesh. When the seeds ripen, the fruit opens so that the kernels can be clearly seen, only held by a thin thread. In their countries of origin, the seeds are eaten by birds, which they contribute to the further spread of the magnolia. However, since the magnolia is generally considered to be poisonous for humans, it is not advisable to consume the fruit - this will most likely cause painful cramps.

also read

  • Magnolia does not bloom, what to do?
  • Magnolia is not suitable as a houseplant
  • Cutting magnolia: when is the optimal time?

Gaining seeds and propagating magnolia

Nevertheless, you can use the magnolia fruits, namely to obtain seeds and thus to multiply the magnolia. However, this only works with single-variety specimens; the result is uncertain with crosses and hybrids. In contrast to propagation by cuttings or by mosses, offspring raised from seeds do not have the same genetic properties as the mother plant, which is why a completely different species can suddenly grow from the seed during a cross. To pull the magnolia from a seed, do the following:

  • Harvest the ripe seeds.
  • Soak them in lukewarm water for several days.
  • Change this daily.
  • Then rinse off the remaining pulp and rub off the reddish skin.
  • Now the actual black seed appears.
  • Pack this with damp sand in an airtight, sealable can.
  • Keep it in your fridge's freezer for the winter.
  • In the spring, fill a small flower pot with peaty soil.
  • Put the seed core in there and cover it with soil about a finger's width.
  • Keep the soil nice and moist.
  • Be patient.

When and if the seed will germinate at all is pure luck. Magnolia seeds do not have a particularly high germination rate, and many seeds take an extremely long time to germinate. So don't lose heart, it's best to plant several seeds and always water them nicely.

Tips & Tricks

Both the fruits and the seeds of the magnolia are wonderfully suitable for an autumn decoration, for example in a container.