Hour 15:41 01 Sep 25

Introduction: One of the non-native ornamental tree species found in the historic garden of Niavaran is the Summer Magnolia. This beautiful evergreen tree, native to North America, was introduced to Iran many years ago. The Summer Magnolia, also known as the Southern Magnolia, is scientifically named Magnolia grandiflora and belongs to the family Magnoliaceae.Plant Description: This tree features a beautiful, conical-shaped crown with young branches and rusty brown, hairy buds. Its leaves are alternate, ovate or elliptical, and thick, with a dark green upper surface and a hairy underside, especially when young. Each leaf remains on the tree for about two years.Summer Magnolia produces large, fragrant, creamy white flowers measuring 15 to 20 centimeters in diameter. The flowers have three petal-like sepals and 6 to 7 petals, blooming from late May through the end of summer. Its fruit is egg-shaped and hairy, releasing bright red seeds in autumn. The tree can grow up to 24 meters tall with a crown spread of about 10 meters. It typically begins flowering at around 15 years of age, sometimes earlier.Growing Conditions and Care: This evergreen tree prefers sunny locations, rich and moist soils with neutral to slightly acidic pH, and warm, humid climates. However, it can also grow well in arid areas if protected from strong winds. The tree has deep roots and benefits from deep monthly watering. The best time to plant seedlings is late winter to early spring (February to April).Propagation method: Summer Magnolia can be propagated by three methods: layering branches (usually in early spring), cuttings, and sowing seeds in moist sand. The seeds require to be placed about two months in a cold place before planting. This tree does not tolerate indoor conditions and should always be grown outdoors.This tree is well-suited for planting among lawns and as an ornamental tree. It can also be grown in large pots during its early years. It pairs nicely with conifers or can serve as a green backdrop for flowering shrubs. Besides its aesthetic value, the Magnolia tree also has medicinal properties; the flower extract is known for its fever-reducing effects, and its seeds contain an aromatic oily substance that helps alleviate seizures.References:www.poponik.comwww.fa.wikipedia.orgwww.gardenmarketco.comwww.kt.balutt.comwww.glassy-garden.com
Research and Compilation: Masoumeh Rezvanfar – M.Sc. in Natural Resources Engineering