As an impressive tropical tree, the evergreen magnolia impresses many plant lovers in this country with its large and citrus-scented flowers. In addition, its dark green, shiny foliage is valuable because it is present all year round. But as winter approaches, the time to worry about this good piece is approaching
Is the evergreen magnolia hardy?
Is the evergreen magnolia hardy? This plant is generally sensitive to frost, especially young specimens. Some frost-hardy varieties such as 'Bracken's Brown Beauty', 'Edith Bouge', 'Exmouth' and 'Victoria' can tolerate temperatures down to -25°C. Protective measures such as fleece wrapping, jute bag and root covering may be necessary in winter.
A sensitive little when it comes to frost
Being hardy can be difficult - at least for the evergreen magnolia. Young specimens in particular are sensitive to frost. Later, when this shallow-rooted plant is properly rooted, it is more tolerant of frost. Therefore, it is generally not recommended to plant the evergreen magnolia at high altitudes. A wine-growing climate is more suitable.
Varieties that are not designed for rough locations
Winter hardiness varies from variety to variety. Most varieties on the market are sensitive to frost. These include, for example, the widespread variety Magnolia grandiflora 'Galissonière'. But Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem' and Magnolia grandiflora 'Goliath' are also small sensitive ones
Such varieties are suitable for mild winter locations. If you plant them in rough locations, after a few years you will most likely see rotten plants with a poorly grown crown. In addition, in the worst case scenario, you have to wait up to 15 years for flowers.
Particularly frost-hardy varieties
But there are varieties that generally tolerate frost better than others (down to -25 °C). These breeds usually come from North America. They include the following specimens:
- Magnolia grandiflora ‘Bracken’s Brown Beauty’
- Magnolia grandiflora 'Edith Bouge'
- Magnolia grandiflora ‘Exmouth’
- Magnola grandiflora ‘Victoria’
How to protect plants
You should wrap evergreen magnolias on a standard trunk area with fleece (€34.00 at Amazon) before the onset of winter. The branches receive a jute sack as protection. The root area of this shallow-rooted plant is covered with various materials.
- bottom layer: bark mulch
- middle layer: foliage
- top layer: straw, brushwood
An evergreen magnolia in a pot should be moved to a bright and cool place over the winter. For example, a well-ventilated stairwell is suitable. The following applies to care: water sparingly and do not fertilize!
Tips & Tricks
Remember to water your Magnolia grandiflora even in winter when the weather is dry.