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Purple Magnolia Wikimedia Commons
Magnoliaceae

Purple Magnolia

Magnolia liliiflora

Dignity and perseverance.

Family
Magnoliaceae
Genus
Magnolia
Native to
China
Bloom season
Spring
Type
shrub
Height
8-12 ft
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Soil
rich, moist, slightly acidic
Water
moderate
Hardiness
5-9
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Purple magnolia has been cultivated in Chinese gardens for over 1,500 years, making it one of the oldest ornamental plants.
  • Its flower buds are used in traditional Chinese medicine as 'xin yi' to treat sinus congestion and headaches.
  • It is one of the parent species of the popular Magnolia x soulangeana hybrid seen in parks and gardens worldwide.
  • The lily-shaped flowers open before the leaves appear, creating a stunning display on bare branches in early spring.
  • In China it is called 'mu lan' (wood orchid), and the legendary warrior Mulan's name derives from this flower.

Color meanings

0

dignity

1

nobility

2

perseverance

Uses

  • ornamental specimen
  • traditional Chinese medicine
  • small garden focal point
  • spring flowering display