Magnolia Grandiflora 'Supergem'

Magnolia grandiflora 'Supergem', often referred to as the Supergem Southern Magnolia, is a particularly attractive cultivar of the Southern Magnolia family. This evergreen tree is praised for its smaller, more compact size compared to the typical Magnolia grandiflora, along with its lustrous, dark green foliage and large, fragrant flowers.

Common Name: Supergem Southern Magnolia
Mature Height (meters): 6-8 meters
Mature Width (meters): 3-4 meters
Spacing: Plant 3-5 meters apart to allow for full canopy growth and proper air circulation.
Foliage: 'Supergem' boasts glossy, leathery leaves that are deep green on the top with a velvety, bronze-brown underside. The leaves are smaller than those of the species, contributing to the tree's dense appearance.
Flowering Period: The tree is adorned with creamy white, saucer-shaped flowers that can reach 20-25 cm in diameter. These aromatic blooms typically appear in late spring to early summer and may continue sporadically throughout the growing season.
Form/Habit: 'Supergem' has a pyramidal to rounded crown with a dense branching habit, making it an excellent choice for a focal point or specimen planting.
Uses: Ideal as a specimen tree, for use in privacy screens, or as an ornamental addition to both formal and informal landscapes.
Evergreen/Deciduous: Evergreen
Tolerates: It tolerates a variety of soil conditions but prefers well-drained, acidic soils. It is also quite tolerant of urban pollution.
Drought Hardy: Once established, 'Supergem' is relatively drought-tolerant.
Sun: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Maintenance: Requires minimal pruning to maintain its shape, but any necessary pruning should be done after flowering to avoid cutting off next year's blooms.
Water Requirement: Moderate; it is important to water regularly, especially during the tree's establishment period and in times of drought.

Magnolia grandiflora 'Supergem' is a splendid choice for anyone looking to bring the timeless elegance of magnolias to a more confined space. Its resilience, coupled with its ornamental qualities, makes it a treasured addition to any landscape.