Magnolia 'Genie' (Magnolia) - spectacular flowering tree - 12 cm pot - Height 30 cm

The 'Genie' Magnolia (Magnolia 'Genie') produces large tulip-shaped flowers with a very deep and intense purple-violet on the outside of the tepals, while the inside is a slightly lighter shade. These spectacular flowers bloom before the leaves appear in spring, giving them maximum visual impact on the still bare branches. A valuable feature of this cultivar is its ability to partially rebloom in summer, thus extending the ornamental season. The compact size of the flowers compared to other magnolias also makes them more resistant to the wind.

Yes, the Magnolia 'Genie' is particularly well suited to growing in a large container on a balcony or terrace, thanks to its naturally compact habit and slow growth. Choose a pot d'at least 40 to 50 cm in diameter with good drainage, filled w'ith a slightly acidic substrate mixed with heather soil. Place the pot in a sunny to partially shaded spot, sheltered fr'om prevailing winds. In winter, protect the pot with a non-woven fabric cover and elevate it to prevent frost from penetrating the sides.

The Magnolia 'Genie' blooms mainly in spring, generally from March to April depending on the region and local climatic conditions. The spring flowering occurs before the 'appearance of leaves, which gives it a spectacular and very graphic appearance. The duration of this first flowering is 'about two to four weeks, depending on the temperatures. This cultivar then often presents a more discreet re-flowering at the end of 'summer, a quality that distinguishes it from many other magnolias.

The Magnolia 'Genie' is a hardy shrub that easily withstands temperate European and continental winters, resisting temperatures down to'about -15°C to -20°C when planted in the ground, according to various sources, once well established. It 'therefore does not require any special winter protection in the vast majority of French gardens. However, the flowers themselves, which bloom very early in spring, are sensitive to late frosts that can burn the tepals and reduce the display of the bloom.

The Magnolia 'Genie' thrives in full sun to partial shade: plenty of sunlight promotes abundant flowering and more intense colors. It tolerates light partial shade, especially in warmer climates. As for the soil, this magnolia prefers ground that is cool, well-drained, rich in organic matter, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 6.5). It does not tolerate alkaline or very clayey soils well, which cause iron chlorosis and stunt its growth.

Pruning of the Magnolia 'Genie'should be kept to a minimum: this shrub naturally develops a compact and balanced shape that 'does not require 'regular maintenance. If pruning is necessary, carry it out just after the spring flowering to avoid removing the flower buds of the 'following year. Limit yourself to the 'removal of dead, broken, diseased, or crossing branches 'inside the crown. Absolutely avoid severe pruning or hard pruning, as magnolias heal slowly and large wounds can promote the 'entry of diseases. Use well-sharpened and disinfected tools for each cut.

The Magnolia 'Genie' pairs perfectly with woodland plants or spring-flowering plants that share its preference for slightly acidic soils. At the base of the 'shrub, pair it with rhododendrons, azaleas, pieris, or hostas for a spring flower bed with varied textures. Spring bulbs such as purple tulips or daffodils create a striking color echo with its purplish flowers. Ornamental grasses provide an interesting textural contrast in summer and autumn, when the magnolia is adorned with its dark green foliage.