Leonard Messel Magnolia

The Leonard Messel Magnolia is a showstopper that puts on a lovely floral display in late April. This plant is so eager to welcome spring that the star-shaped, purple flowers bloom before the leaves emerge. The flowers are 4 inches wide and have strap-like petals. Magnolias have a low-branched, upright growth habit that takes on a rounded form with age. The branches have a gray-colored bark. Plant this beauty in beds or borders or create a focal point in a landscape. Trim the flowers to feature in an arrangement and further enjoy the blooms. The flowers attract birds and butterflies, so it is also a valuable addition to an outdoor space. This cultivar grows as a perennial in zones 4 through 8, but it is known to be frost-hardy, making it a good choice for colder climates. Leonard Messel Magnolia Care Magnolia trees need neutral to acidic, rich soil that is moist but well drained. Plant Leonard Messel in full to partial sun because this deciduous perennial needs plenty of light to bloom. New plants need regular watering, while established plants have average water needs. Feed it during the spring using a balanced, organic fertilizer formulated for acid-loving shrubs and trees. Plant the Leonard Messel Magnolia when the tree is dormant, either during the fall in warm climates or during the spring in colder regions. Prune this plant as needed in mid-summer after the flowers have faded and the leaves have filled in. Leonard Messel Magnolia Spacing The Leonard Messel Magnolia has an upright, woody structure and will reach 20 to 25 feet tall and wide. Space plants 20 feet apart to allow them to reach their mature size.