How to grow fragrant star magnolia

Reaching to about four metres high, it’s a popular small tree or shrub for small spaces as it can be container grown and there’s no need to prune.

 

FOR PLANTING choose a spot in full to part sun in fertile soil with shelter from hot winds and afternoon sun.

 

TO CARE water weekly in hot weather by dripping water onto the root zone for an hour so it soaks into the soil, applying leaf litter or organic mulch around the base of the tree to keep the roots cool.

 

Fertilise with a light application of azalea and camellia food in spring.

 

TIP The shallow roots don’t like being disturbed so avoid planting grass or a groundcover around the base.