Comparing Magnolia varieties — notes from growing several

I've grown several varieties within the Magnolia family and have some observations to share. multi-decade investment that improves year on year varies noticeably between them, more than catalogue descriptions suggest. The care fundamentals are shared — keeping a mulch-free collar immediately around the trunk applies across all of them.

scale insects or aphids in the canopy attracting sooty mould affects some more than others, particularly in adverse conditions. I grow mine in a garden focal point visible from the house windows which works well for most varieties. full canopy providing shade and habitat in summer is the clearest moment of differentiation between varieties — that's when the character of each comes through. Worth growing a few side by side if you have the space.