Magnolia Loebneri ‘Leonard Messel’

Magnolia × loebneri ‘Leonard Messel’ is a beautiful deciduous ornamental tree or large shrub, grown for its masses of delicate, star-shaped spring flowers. It is an excellent choice for specimen planting, lawns, mixed borders and gardens where an impressive display of early-season colour is wanted.

It develops an attractive, broadly rounded habit and can eventually reach approximately 4–8 metres in height and spread. Its fresh green foliage provides an attractive backdrop throughout the summer before falling in autumn.

In spring, before or alongside the emerging leaves, the branches become covered in fragrant, star-shaped flowers. The blooms open from darker pink buds, revealing pale pink to white inner petals with deeper pink colouring on the outside, creating a particularly attractive two-tone effect.

Its manageable growth and spectacular flowering display make ‘Leonard Messel’ an excellent focal point for medium to large gardens, either planted individually in a lawn or incorporated into a generous mixed border.

Plant in full sun or partial shade in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. A sheltered position is preferable to help protect the spring flowers from strong winds and late frosts.

With its abundance of star-shaped pink flowers, attractive summer foliage and graceful form, Magnolia × loebneri ‘Leonard Messel’ is a superb ornamental tree for bringing structure and beautiful spring colour to the garden.