Saucer magnolia 'Brozzonii' Magnolia × soulangeana 'Brozzonii'

Water

Saucer Magnolia should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season, especially if there hasn't been significant rainfall. The amount of water should generally be about 1 to 1.5 gallons for young trees, increasing the amount as the tree matures, ensuring moisture reaches deep into the root zone. During hot and dry periods, watering frequency should increase to twice a week, while during cooler or rainy seasons, it should be reduced. It's important not to overwater, as standing water or very wet soil can lead to root rot. Always check the soil moisture by feeling it a few inches deep; it should be moist but not saturated.

Light

The Saucer Magnolia thrives best in full sun to partial shade. It prefers a spot that receives at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but it can also tolerate some light afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Avoid placing it in deep shade, as this can lead to reduced flowering and a less vigorous plant overall.

Temperature

Saucer Magnolia trees are hardy in zones 4 through 9 and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, but they perform best when the temperature is between 70 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can withstand winter chill down to about -10 degrees Fahrenheit and enjoy the moderate warmth of spring and fall. However, prolonged exposure to temperatures over 90 degrees Fahrenheit can stress the tree.

Pruning

Pruning a Saucer Magnolia is primarily done to shape the tree and remove any dead or diseased wood. It should be done after the tree finishes blooming in late spring to avoid cutting off any of the current year's blooms. Light pruning and the removal of any damaged branches can be done at this time. Major pruning should only be done every few years to maintain the shape and health of the tree.

Cleaning

As needed

Soil

The Saucer Magnolia prefers a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter with a slightly acidic to neutral pH, typically between 5.5 to 7.0. A blend of loam, peat moss, and compost makes an ideal soil mix for this plant.

Repotting

Saucer Magnolias are typically planted in the ground rather than potted, but young trees can be repotted every few years as they grow, or when they become root-bound.

Humidity & Misting

The Saucer Magnolia does well in average outdoor humidity levels and doesn’t require specific humidity conditions, but it does appreciate a location that isn't too dry.

Suitable locations

• Indoor

  Place in bright indirect light, ensure ample space.

• Outdoor

  Full sun to partial shade, shelter from harsh winds.

• Hardiness zone

  4-9 USDA

Life cycle

The Magnolia × soulangeana 'Brozzonii', commonly known as the Saucer Magnolia, begins its life cycle with seed germination, which requires exposure to warm and cold stratification periods to break dormancy. After germination, the seedling stage follows, where the plant develops its first true leaves and establishes a root system. As it grows into a young plant, the Saucer Magnolia enters the vegetative stage, with rapid growth of branches and leaves, preparing for the flowering phase. The mature stage is marked by the plant's ability to produce the iconic large, showy flowers, typically blooming in early spring before leafing out. Once the flowering stage concludes, the plant produces fruit that contains seeds, completing the reproductive cycle. Finally, the Magnolia 'Brozzonii' reaches the senescence stage, where growth slows, and the plant eventually dies, although it can live and continue to flower for decades with proper care.

Propogation

• Propogation time

  Spring-Early summer

• The most popular method for propagating the Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia × soulangeana 'Brozzonii', is through softwood cuttings taken during late spring to early summer. To do this, select a healthy young branch and cut a piece about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 centimeters) in length, ensuring there are at least two to three sets of leaves. Remove the leaves from the lower half of the cutting and dip the cut end into a rooting hormone powder to encourage root growth. Then, plant the cutting in a well-draining potting mix, and keep it moist and in a warm place with indirect sunlight. A plastic bag can be placed over the container to maintain humidity. Roots typically develop in a few weeks, after which the new plant can eventually be transplanted outdoors.