Magnolia Daybreak

A comparatively late-flowering magnolia, and notably hardy, Magnolia Daybreak is a good choice for colder areas. It’s a medium-sized to tall, deciduous tree of medium growth-rate with a very upright, almost columnar habit when young, spreading somewhat as it matures. The elliptical leaves are mid-green. The large, cup-shaped flowers, whose splayed petals display shades from carmine to rose-pink to shell-pink, emerge on the bare branches, and are strongly scented, with a rather fruity fragrance. It’s an easy, adaptable magnolia; if any pruning is needed, it should be done in midsummer.  Magnolia Daybreak holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit, and is an excellent choice as a specimen, drawing all eyes when in flower.

Site: Sheltered
Soil: Well drained, humus-rich, acid to neutral soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of interest: Spring in particular
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: up to 33’ (10m) Spread: 10’ (3m)