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michelia maudiae nz

If you’re seeking a stunning addition to your garden or outdoor space, look no further than Michelia maudiae, a cherished plant renowned for its fragrant blossoms and glossy leaves. Celebrated for its resilience and elegance, this tree thrives beautifully in New Zealand's diverse climate. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or a newbie, Michelia maudiae is an excellent choice to enrich your botanical collection.

Michelia maudiae (Smiling Monkey Forest Tree)

Smiling Monkey Forest Tree, Magnolia maudiae

Michelia maudiae, commonly known as the Smiling Monkey Forest Tree, is a handsome tree grown for both its foliage and lovely flowers. It grows as a small, shapely tree and carries glossy, dark green leaves which are very aesthetic in their own right. Velvet buds open through late winter and spring to reveal showy and fragrant, pure white flowers as it grows to 5 m tall and 3 m wide. Michelia maudiae is commonly grown as a specimen, included in a mixed planting, clipped into a hedge, used in an avenue planting, added to a cottage or “white” garden, or used as a backdrop for smaller plants.

  • Suited to regions:
    Subtropical, Temperate
  • Plant type:
    Trees
  • Height:
    5.00 m
  • Spread:
    3.00 m
  • Flowering time:
    Spring, Winter
  • Garden uses:
    Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
  • Garden styles:
    Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern, White

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Michelia maudiae (Smiling Monkey Forest Tree)

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Features of Michelia maudiae

Michelia maudiae is a medium-sized evergreen tree, often admired for its lush, dark green foliage and enchanting white flowers. Blooming primarily in late spring and summer, these delicate and aromatic blossoms fill the air with a delightful fragrance that attracts a variety of beneficial pollinators. In addition to its visual appeal, the tree can grow up to 8-10 meters in height, making it an ideal specimen for creating a focal point in gardens or landscapes.

Ideal Growing Conditions

One of the remarkable aspects of Michelia maudiae is its adaptability. This species flourishes in a range of soil types, provided they are well-drained. It thrives best in full sun to partial shade and can be cultivated in various climates across New Zealand. When planting, be sure to space your Michelia maudiae adequately, allowing it room to grow and spread its branches. Regular watering and mulching will help retain soil moisture and promote healthy growth, especially during dry spells.

Uses in Landscaping

The versatility of Michelia maudiae makes it a fantastic selection for various landscaping projects. It is well-suited for hedges, screening, or as a standalone specimen tree. Its lush foliage provides a beautiful backdrop for other plants, while the fragrant blooms can enhance any outdoor setting. Pairing Michelia maudiae with other ornamental trees like Lagerstroemia Bergerac or Quercus palustris can create a lush, vibrant garden filled with texture and colour.

Companions for Michelia maudiae

When designing your garden with Michelia maudiae, consider planting companion plants that can thrive in the same conditions. For example, Michelia Bubbles offers a complementary look with its charming flowers, while Michelia Touch of Pink provides a lovely contrast with its pink hues. If you’re looking to incorporate a more native twist, consider adding Nothofagus Cliffortioides to your landscape.

Care Tips

Caring for your Michelia maudiae involves regular pruning to maintain its shape and encourage bushy growth. While this tree is relatively low-maintenance, it’s essential to keep an eye out for pests and diseases, ensuring the foliage remains healthy. An occasional application of organic fertilizer can also promote vibrant blooms and robust growth throughout the growing season.

In summary, if you want to enhance your garden with a stunning, fragrant tree, consider Michelia maudiae nz. With its breathtaking blooms and lush foliage, this tree is bound to create an inviting and aromatic atmosphere in your outdoor space. Be sure to explore related options, such as Michelia gracipes, to further enrich your garden with delightful varieties of Michelias.


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