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magnolia liliiflora susan

Discover the undeniable charm of Magnolia liliiflora Susan, an elegant and resilient small tree perfect for New Zealand gardens. Sometimes confused with Magnolia soulangeana Susan, this highly regarded magnolia is prized for its spectacular goblet-shaped, deep rosy-purple blooms that add vivid colour and graceful form to any landscape from early spring through late autumn.

Magnolia soulangeana Susan

Magnolia soulangeana ‘Susan’ is a compact, deciduous magnolia valued for its rich, deep pink to purple, tulip-shaped flowers that appear in early to mid-spring. Growing to around 3–4 metres tall, it’s ideal for smaller gardens, borders, or as a feature tree. ‘Susan’ blooms later than many magnolias, and its upright, tidy form suits both formal and informal landscapes. Hardy and easy to grow, it brings bold seasonal colour to NZ gardens.

A Magnolia 'Susan' tree covered in pink flowers.
  • Suited to regions:
    All regions
  • Plant type:
    Trees
  • Height:
    3.00 m
  • Spread:
    2.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Spring
  • Garden uses:
    Living areas, Parks, Specimen
  • Garden styles:
    Alpine, Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
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Magnolia soulangeana Susan

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Why Choose Magnolia liliiflora Susan?

Magnolia liliiflora Susan is loved for its reliability, versatility, and compact habit. This deciduous magnolia typically matures to around 3 to 4 metres, making it a wonderful option for small gardens, urban courtyards, and container displays. Its exceptional spring flowers open before most other plants, creating a dazzling show when little else is in bloom.

Key attributes include: - Striking, fragrant purple-pink blooms in late winter or early spring
- Robust, upright growth with lush green foliage
- Excellent frost tolerance once established
- Low-maintenance, needing only occasional pruning to maintain shape

Plant Magnolia liliiflora Susan as a stunning specimen or include it in a mixed border for extended interest. Its prolific blooms invite bees and pollinators, supporting biodiversity in your garden.

Planting and Care Tips

Position Magnolia liliiflora Susan in a sunny to partly shaded spot, sheltered from strong wind. Magnolias thrive in rich, free-draining soil that’s slightly acidic. Add plenty of organic matter when planting, and mulch annually to keep roots cool and moist. Regular watering is essential during dry spells, especially while the plant is young.

Magnolias rarely require heavy pruning, but you can remove any dead or damaged branches after flowering. Feed with a slow-release fertiliser in early spring to encourage strong growth and flower development.

Pairing Magnolia liliiflora Susan with Other Ornamental Trees

Magnolia liliiflora Susan pairs beautifully with a variety of showy trees and shrubs, especially those that flower at different times or offer contrasting foliage. For more inspiration, consider adding the delicate, star-like flowers of Magnolia stellata Waterlily, or the bold, tulip-shaped blooms of Magnolia Star Wars.

For year-round structure and interest, try mixing with evergreen magnolias like Magnolia grandiflora Little Gem or Magnolia DD Blanchard. Those who want a compact, burgundy-flowered option will love Magnolia Genie.

Explore More Ornamental Choices

Magnolia liliiflora Susan looks striking alongside blossom trees and flowering shrubs that add seasonal colour. For lasting spring beauty, consider Malus Barbara Ann (Barbara Ann Crabapple) or the vibrant Crataegus laevigata Paul's Scarlet.

For a unique foliage accent, the bold leaves of Quercus mexicana and the arresting shapes of maples such as Acer palmatum Ueno-Yama (Ueno Yama) and Acer palmatum Inaba Shidare (Inaba Shidare Japanese Maple) make excellent planting companions.

Bring Home Magnolia liliiflora Susan

Magnolia liliiflora Susan is an exceptional choice for anyone wishing to bring early-spring drama and elegance to their New Zealand garden. Whether you feature it as a single statement tree or blend it with a tapestry of flowering ornamentals, it will certainly reward you for years to come.


Contact us

Whether you need assistance finding the plant you’re looking for or you simply want to know more about who we are and what we do, we invite you to get in touch with us today. A member of The Plant Company team will get back in touch as soon as possible.

While Lomandra Little Con and Rose 'Flower Carpet White' are household names, Canna Felix Ragout, Prunus laurocerasus, and Pelargonium sidoides are rising stars in the plant world.
–The Plant Company

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