Deciduous species are less sensitive to cold
Basically, it can be said that most of the magnolia varieties available in our shops are quite hardy, which is why they - with a few exceptions - can be planted in the garden without any problems. However, the deciduous magnolias, which regularly shed their leaves in autumn, are much more resistant. These varieties are naturally prepared for cold winters, in contrast to the evergreen species. The latter have their home in warmer climes and therefore need more protection. Young magnolias in particular, regardless of the variety, always need good winter protection. They only get used to the frosty temperatures with age and are also not strong enough to withstand the cold at a young age. The roots always need protection (e.g. with a thick layer of bark mulch),because they grow just below the surface of the earth and can therefore quickly freeze to death.
also read
- From the small shrub to the imposing tree - the height of different magnolias varies
- Magnolias often reach a considerable height
- Different types of magnolia have different flowering times
Popular frost-hardy varieties
| Magnolia species | Latin name | variety | Flower color | Frost hardiness |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tulip magnolia | Magnolia soulangiana | genius | dark red | up to approx. - 23 ° C |
| Tulip magnolia | Magnolia soulangeana | various | white, pink or purple | up to approx. - 24 ° C |
| Purple magnolia | Magnolia liliiflora | Nigra | purple | up to approx. - 24 ° C |
| Purple magnolia | Magnolia liliiflora | Susan | purple | up to approx. - 27 ° C |
| Star magnolia | Magnolia stellata | different sorts | White | up to approx. - 30 ° C |
Plant early flowering varieties only in mild regions
The low frost resistance of the buds or flowers is also a problem with winter or frost-hardy magnolias. The tree itself may be hardy, but its flowers are not. Late frosts in spring can deprive it of its bloom, which is why you should either protect it in good time or opt for a late blooming magnolia species. The summer magnolia (Magnolia Sieboldii) with its distinctive flowers does not bloom until around June and is therefore little endangered. Varieties that bloom very early (e.g. star magnolia, Magnolia stellata) should therefore only be planted in regions with a rather mild climate.
Tips & Tricks
Pot magnolias, whether hardy or not according to the variety label, are always at risk from frosty temperatures and should therefore ideally overwinter under cold house conditions. The reason for this is the sensitive roots that are not adequately protected by the pot.
