Magnolia 'Koban Dori' Magnolia acuminata 'Koban Dori'

Water

The Cucumber Tree Magnolia should be watered thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry slightly between watering sessions. During the growing season, water the tree once or twice a week depending on the weather conditions. A newly planted Cucumber Tree may require about 1 to 1.5 gallons per week, gradually increasing the amount to 5 gallons as the tree matures and the root system expands. During hot, dry periods, water requirements may increase, and additional water should be provided to maintain soil moisture and prevent stress. During the dormant season, decrease the frequency of watering to reflect lower temperature and moisture needs.

Light

The Cucumber Tree Magnolia thrives in full sun to partial shade. The ideal spot for this magnolia would be a location where it can receive at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. While it can tolerate some shade, too much can lead to fewer blooms and a less vigorous plant.

Temperature

The Cucumber Tree Magnolia prefers temperate climates and is hardy in a range from about -20 to 95 degrees Fahrenheit. It can survive short periods of colder winter temperatures down to approximately -30 degrees Fahrenheit, but for optimal growth, it should not be exposed to extreme cold for extended periods. Ideally, the Cucumber Tree Magnolia should be planted in areas where temperatures are within the optimum range for the majority of the year.

Pruning

Prune the Cucumber Tree Magnolia to maintain its shape and health, and to remove any dead or diseased wood. The best time to prune is late winter or early spring before new growth starts, generally once per year. Light pruning can also be done after flowering to shape the tree or reduce its size, but heavy pruning should be avoided as it can reduce flowering.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

Cucumber Tree (Magnolia acuminata 'Koban Dori') thrives in a soil mix that is rich, well-draining, and slightly acidic to neutral (pH 5.5 to 7.0). A mix of loamy soil, peat moss, and coarse sand or perlite is ideal to ensure proper drainage and nutrient retention. Regularly replenish organic matter to maintain soil fertility.

Repotting

The Cucumber Tree should be repotted every 2-3 years, or when it becomes root-bound. Spring is the best time for repotting to allow the tree to establish in the growing season.

Humidity & Misting

Cucumber Tree prefers moderate to high humidity levels. Strive for a humidity range between 50% and 70% to support its growth and health.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright, indirect light, ensure space for growth.

• Outdoor

  Plant in well-drained soil, sunlight to partial shade.

• Hardiness zone

  4-8 USDA

Life cycle

Magnolia acuminata 'Koban Dori', commonly known as the Cucumber Tree, begins its life as a seed, which upon germinating in suitable soil and environmental conditions, develops a root system and a shoot that pushes through the soil surface. As a seedling, it establishes itself through a juvenile phase, characterized by rapid growth and foliage development. The tree then enters a vegetative stage, where it expands in height and girth, producing broad, deciduous leaves that enable photosynthesis to fuel further growth. After several years, it matures and enters the reproductive phase, characterized by the development of distinctive yellow-green blossoms that are pollinated by insects, leading to the production of cylindrical red fruit resembling cucumbers. Following pollination and fruit set, seeds are dispersed—often by birds or gravity—completing the reproductive cycle. The Cucumber Tree can live for many years, and as it reaches old age, growth slows, and it may become more susceptible to environmental stresses and diseases, eventually leading to death and decomposition, which returns nutrients to the soil.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early Summer

• The Magnolia acuminata 'Koban Dori', commonly known as the Cucumber Magnolia, is typically best propagated during the dormant season, particularly in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. The most popular method of propagation for this cultivar is through softwood cuttings. To propagate by cuttings, one must select healthy young branches and cut segments around 6 to 8 inches (approximately 15 to 20 centimeters) long, ensuring that each cutting has at least two to three nodes. The lower leaves are removed, and the cut end is often treated with a rooting hormone to encourage root development. The prepared cuttings are then inserted into a moist, well-draining rooting medium such as a mix of peat and perlite. These are kept under high humidity and indirect light until roots have developed, which typically takes several weeks. Once rooted, the young Magnolias can be potted up separately and gradually acclimatized to outdoor conditions before planting them in their permanent locations.