Most Magnolia species will grow happily in full sun but tolerate shade since it provides some protection from the harsh afternoon sun. They are capable of thriving in garden areas with full sun to light or partial shade, especially since the shade is beneficial to Magnolias grown in hot or dry areas, protecting them from the hot afternoon sun.
Magnolia Grandiflora
How Much Light Does Magnolia Need?
Magnolias need plenty of sunlight and space to grow to maturity. They are ornamental flowering plants popular in warm climates. Despite being capable of tolerating full shade for short periods, most Magnolias prefer the full sun to partial shade; as those that grow in full shade may not flower well since their large, glossy, green leaves and showy white flowers grow best in full sun.
Generally. they need direct sunlight to bloom, with an ideal light condition of six or more hours of full sunlight every day.
What Is The Best Position For Magnolias
Choosing a good location for Magnolias is very important because they have fleshy shallow roots and should not be planted where they will be damaged by soil compaction and foot traffic. Even when planted in clear, sunny sites, they are capable of being shaded by nearby trees that may have grown tall.
Magnolias are best planted in sunny spots where they get full sunlight. Place your magnolia facing north or east where they can get full sun but shelter from the hot afternoon sun, hot or strong winds, and late frosts.
It is the best position for a magnolia tree’s temperature needs. They are partially frost hardy but temperatures between -6 to -23 degrees Celsius can cause mortality. They are best propagated from cuttings in summer, seed in autumn, or grafted in winter when they will enjoy the chilly and moist winters followed by warm and moist summers.
Species Of Magnolia That Thrive In Shade
- Magnolia grandiflora: The larger American species that grows in warm temperate to subtropical climates.
- Magnolia stellata: Which is best planted in woodland gardens or sheltered pots, flowering profusely in shade.
- Magnolia laeviflora: Formerly known as Michelia and now referred to as Michelia
yunnanensis. It makes a beautiful hedge, growing well in shade although requiring
a minimum of the half-day sun for best flowering.
Some other cultivars that are especially attractive in shady locations are ‘Bracken’s
Brow Beauty’ Magnolia and ‘Little Gem’ Magnolia which are both cultivars of the
Southern Magnolia.
