by One Click PlantsMay 14, 20252 min read

There are plenty of stunningmagnolia varieties available to pack into your garden. These fragrant plants come in all shapes and sizes, with different species having distinct aesthetic identities and unique care requirements. Picking the right ones for your garden/greenhouse depends on a variety of factors. 


This blog, rather than highlighting thedifferent magnolia species, will be focused on offering tips for choosing between the options available. 


Consider size and shape

The magnolia bush varieties you choose should be suitable for your garden space and the size of the display you’re looking to create. Some magnolias are a lot more compact, like the evergreen plants known asMagnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’, whileMagnolia Susan can be a lot larger. 


It’s also important to consider the growth habit of the species you choose – will it be more rounded and bushy or more upright? 


Flower characteristics and personal preferences

Choosing between magnolia plant varieties will largely come down to your personal preference. There are many differences between magnolias, with some of the plants barely even resembling one another. 


Elements to consider include: 


  • Yourcolour psychology and how the flower will suit it e.g. the calming white of Magnolia stellata or the deep and vibrant purples ofMagnolia Black Tulips

  • Bloom shapes can be star-shaped, tulip-reminiscent, saucer-shaped and more – choose the shape that suits your dream display

  • Magnolias are fragrant plants, with the different varieties having different scents – do some research to choose between more citrusy, sweet or spicy tones –smell psychology can be just as important as colour! 


These might seem like superficial characteristics but they’re going to define how you interact with and enjoy the display daily, so they need to be approached thoughtfully. 


Deciduous vs evergreen

Your appetite for gardening maintenance and different visual styles should guide whether you choose deciduous or evergreen plants in the magnolia family. 


Deciduous magnolias

These will lose their leaves in fall, with blooming taking place in early spring, generally on bare branches. This creates a dramatic display for your garden.


Evergreen magnolias

These magnolia varieties retain glossy, leathery green leaves all-year round, with blooms appearing in the summer. They’re great for maintaining year-round display structure. 


There are plenty of stunning choices in both deciduous and evergreen magnolia shrub varieties, so do plenty of research or even consider mixing and matching for displays! Evergreen varieties might be better if you live in anarea with harsh winters


Picking between magnolia varieties

Now that you know what differences you might come across, there are some basic processes you should go through before picking the magnolia species for your garden.


  • Make a note of your available space

  • Check your soil type and pH

  • Consider the sunlight exposure around the garden

  • Research every variety that you’re interested in

  • Decide what aesthetic will best suit your dream display

  • Take note of care requirements and your available time/effort for active gardening


The most important thing is going to a good supplier, with a wide range of options and information available. Choosing a store like One Click Plants will offer you unbeatable access tomagnolia varieties, along with plenty of information so you can create your dream outdoor space.



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