Wildlife value of Magnolia — an unexpected bonus

I planted Magnolia primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. exceptional seasonal spectacle from blossom through autumn colour seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a boundary or avenue planting in a larger space which allows me to watch the activity up close. autumn colour and fruit or berry display is the most active period for wildlife visits. formative pruning in the first five years to build a clear leader is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. verticillium wilt causing branch dieback on susceptible species is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.