Magnolia 'Susan' (Magnolia) - spectacular flowering tree - 17 cm pot - Height 45 cm

The 'Susan' Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Susan') is a modest-sized tree-like shrub, a hybrid resulting from crosses between Magnolia liliiflora and Magnolia stellata. At maturity, it generally reaches a height of 2 to 2.5 meters under normal growing conditions, developing into a dense, layered bush. Its growth is slow, around 15 to 20 cm per year, making it an ideal plant for modest-sized gardens or large containers. It therefore never reaches the proportions of a large tree like the Magnolia grandiflora, and is perfectly suited to limited spaces.

The Magnolia 'Susan' blooms in spring, generally fr'om April to May depending on the region and weather conditions. Its flowering is early and spectacular: the large, dark pink tulip-shaped flowers, slightly streaked with mauve at the base, 'open even before the 'leaves appear, creating a dramatic and highly decorative effect. The flowering lasts on average 3 to 4 weeks, sometimes longer if the weather remains cool and frost-free.

Yes, the Magnolia 'Susan' is perfectly hardy and suited to growing in the ground in most of France. It can withstand winter temperatures down'to around -15°C without any special protection, making it suitable for cold temperate climates. Once well established in its second or third year, it requires no winter protection. During the first year after planting, a generous mulch around the base (10 cm t'hick) helps protect the roots from severe cold.

The Magnolia 'Susan' prefers fresh, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil, with an ideal pH between 5.5 and 7. It tolerates slightly clayey soils provided that 'they are not waterlogged in winter, as 'root asphyxiation is its main enemy. To improve alkaline or overly alkaline soils, it is recommended 'to incorporate heather soil and compost at the time of planting, and 'to use an acidifying fertilizer every spring. Sandy soils, too poor and dry, require a significant supply of organic matter and regular watering.

Yes, the Magnolia 'Susan' lends itself very well to growing in a large container on a sunny terrace or balcony. Its slow growth and compact stature (2 m at maturity) make it a serious candidate for container life. You will need to choose a pot d'at least 40 to 50 cm in diameter, with a well-draining substrate composed o'f a mixture of ericaceous potting soil, heather soil, and perlite. In a pot, watering must be more frequent and regular than 'in the ground, especially in summer.

The 'Susan' Magnolia pairs beautifully with other plants that prefer slightly acidic soil and partial shade to sunny locations. At the back of a border, it complements rhododendrons and azaleas, which share the same soil preferences and extend the spring display with complementary colors. At the base of the magnolia, hydrangeas (Hydrangea) provide summer flowers that take over after the spectacular April display.

The Magnolia 'Susan' is precisely 'one of the magnolias best suited to small gardens, courtyards and city gardens. Its maximum adult size of 2 to 2.5 m, its naturally compact bushy shape and its slow growth make it a perfectly manageable shrub, which 'will not invade the 'space over the years. It tolerates urban air pollution well, which is a significant advantage in city environments.