Magnolia x soulangeana 'Cleopatra'

Common name: Magnolia 'Cleopatra'

Description: This exceptional cultivar of the popular saucer magnolia produces an outstanding display of large, elegant flowers in rich rose-pink shades with a distinctive upright, tulip-like form. The blooms appear in mid to late spring, each measuring up to 20cm across, with thick, fleshy petals in deep pink on the outside and lighter pink to white within, creating beautiful depth and dimension. The flowers carry a sweet, subtle fragrance and appear both before and as the leaves emerge, extending the display. 'Cleopatra' is particularly valued for the upright, goblet shape of its flowers which creates a more refined, contemporary effect than the typical spreading saucer-shaped blooms. The tree produces flowers at a young age and blooms prolifically once established. The compact, upright habit makes this ideal for smaller gardens, and the tree requires minimal pruning. The glossy green summer foliage provides an attractive backdrop through the growing season. This is an outstanding choice for adding elegance and spring drama to gardens, particularly effective as a specimen or focal point.

Other benefits: large fragrant flowers, upright tulip-shaped blooms, flowers at young age, compact habit, rich pink colour, ideal for smaller gardens, excellent specimen tree

Wildlife attraction: bees, early pollinators

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 3m x 2.5m

Position: full sun to partial shade; benefits from shelter from cold winds and late frosts

Soil pH: prefers neutral to acidic conditions; tolerates slightly alkaline soils

Moisture: moderate watering required; prefers consistently moist but well-drained soil; benefits from mulching

Winter hardiness: hardy to -15°C