16. Magnolia x soulangeana, Saucer Magnolia
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Magnolia x soulangeana, Saucer Magnolia branch and flower buds |
16. Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia x soulangeana
Artist’s Note:
Fossilized magnolia specimens have been found that date back to 20 million years ago. With over 200 flowering species in the Magnolia genus, this deciduous tree puts on a spectacular show in early spring. Saucer Magnolia with huge flowers held high on bare branches, is a favorite for both home and arboretum collections. A hybrid, first developed by a French plant breeder, Étienne Soulange-Bodin, however since then, others have bred over a hundred different varieties with many flower forms and colors.
At LBH&G, the large established tree facing Santa Rosa Avenue stands tall at the edge of the garden. Recently, several rare varieties, donated by the San Francisco Botanical Gardens have been added to the magnolia collection at LBH&G. Magnolia x soulangeana is an overwhelming favorite and much-loved subject of botanical artists to both draw and paint. I am intrigued by its branches with prominent leaf scars and fuzzy soft covering that fall away as the blooms open. In fall and winter, the seed pods are highly decorative.
Vulgo: Saucer Magnolia
Name: Magnolia x soulangeana
Family: Magnoliaceae
Habit: Tree
Height: 30 ft (10 M)
Native to: Asia and the Americas
Leaf type: Simple
Shape: Obdeltoid
Tip: Abruptly acute
Margin: Entire
Venation: Pinnate
Surface: Smooth
Size: 4–8 in (10–20 cm)
Arrangement: Alternate
Pen and ink: Amber R Turner © 2020
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