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port wine magnolia tree

The port wine magnolia tree is a beloved evergreen shrub or small tree that adds lush foliage and intoxicating fragrance to New Zealand gardens. Famous for its glossy leaves and unique, port wine-scented flowers, this versatile plant (Michelia figo) is perfect for those seeking a sensory garden experience, a dense hedge, or a compact ornamental specimen for small to medium-sized spaces.

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Magnolia grandiflora 'Russet'

5 from 2 customers

Magnolia grandiflora 'Russet' is a striking evergreen magnolia valued for its glossy dark green leaves with rich russet brown undersides and large fragrant white flowers. Flowering through summer, this elegant tree creates a bold feature in NZ gardens while also providing year round structure and privacy.

From $387.55

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 6.00 m
Spread: 4.00 m
Flowering time: Spring
Garden uses: Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
A Michelia figo (Port Wine Magnolia) plant with pink blushed flowers and dark green foliage.

Michelia figo

5 from 2 customers

Michelia figo, commonly known as the Port Wine Magnolia, is a compact evergreen tree prized for its delightfully fragrant, cream-white flowers and glossy foliage. Ideal for hedging, screening, or as a specimen tree, it brings year-round beauty and subtle perfume to New Zealand gardens.

From $65.55

Suited to regions: Subtropical, Temperate
Plant type: Trees
Height: 3.00 m
Spread: 2.00 m
Flowering time: Spring, Winter
Tolerances: Hardy
Garden uses: Hedging, Living areas, Parks, Pool areas, Screening, Specimen
Garden styles: Backyard, City & Courtyard, Formal, Frontyard, Japanese, Modern
Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem' white flower.
Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’ is a compact, evergreen tree prized for its glossy green leaves and large, fragrant white flowers. Growing to...

From$270.40
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Magnolia 'Kay Parris'

Magnolia 'Kay Parris' is an elegant evergreen tree prized for its glossy foliage, compact growth habit, and impressive creamy white flowers. The...

From$387.55
magnolia-liliiflora-nigra-1
Magnolia liliiflora 'Nigra'

Magnolia liliiflora 'Nigra' is a striking deciduous shrub or small tree prized for its richly coloured spring flowers and compact garden form. The...

From$270.40
A lovely Magnolia 'Lennei alba' specimen tree covered in white flowers.
Magnolia lennei 'Alba'

Magnolia 'Lennei Alba', commonly known as Saucer Magnolia, bears masses of large, showy, semi-double, fragrant, ivory-white flowers that are borne on...

From$387.55
Arctotis 'Magenta Wine' purple flower.
Arctotis 'Magenta Wine'

Arctotis 'Magenta Wine' delivers rich magenta blooms that bring depth and vibrancy to NZ gardens. This striking variety thrives in full sun and dry...

From$22.01
magnolia-denudata-gere-4
Magnolia denudata 'Gere'

Magnolia denudata 'Gere' is a magnificent deciduous tree celebrated for its large, fragrant white flowers that appear in late winter and early spring...

From$387.55
magnolia-soulangeana-heaven-scent-2
Magnolia 'Heaven Scent'

Magnolia 'Heaven Scent' is an elegant deciduous tree prized for its fragrant spring flowers and attractive upright form. The large blooms appear on...

From$387.55
magnolia-grandiflora-dd-blanchard-1
Magnolia 'DD Blanchard'

Magnolia 'DD Blanchard' is a magnificent evergreen tree admired for its large glossy green leaves with rich copper brown undersides and elegant...

From$515.35
A beautiful Magnolia denudata (Yulan Magnolia) white flower.
Magnolia denudata

Magnolia denudata, commonly known as the Lily Tree or Yulan Magnolia, is a deciduous tree admired for its large, fragrant, creamy white flowers that...

From$270.40
magnolia-deryk-2
Magnolia 'Deryk'

Magnolia 'Deryk' is a striking deciduous tree prized for its richly coloured spring flowers and attractive garden form. The large blooms appear...

From$387.55
A stunning white Magnolia stellata flower.
Magnolia stellata

Magnolia stellata, commonly known as the Star Magnolia or Starry Magnolia, features dark pink flower buds that open in spring to reveal star-shaped...

From$270.40
Exquisite Magnolia 'Genie' dark purple flowers.
Magnolia 'Genie'

Magnolia 'Genie' is a compact, deciduous magnolia prized for its rich, burgundy-purple, tulip-shaped flowers, which bloom in early spring. This...

From$270.40
magnolia-stellata-waterlily-5
Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily'

Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily' is a beautiful deciduous magnolia admired for its masses of fragrant white flowers that appear in late winter and early...

From$270.40
An exquisite Magnolia 'Iolanthe' two-tone pink flower.
Magnolia Iolanthe

Magnolia 'Iolanthe' is a stunning deciduous magnolia known for its large, goblet-shaped pink flowers with creamy interiors that bloom in early to...

From$387.55
magnolia-margaret-helen-
Magnolia 'Margaret Helen'

Magnolia 'Margaret Helen' is an elegant deciduous tree prized for its impressive spring flowers and attractive garden form. The large blooms appear...

From$387.55
magnolia-campbellii-charles-raffill-2
Magnolia 'Charles Raffill'

Magnolia 'Charles Raffill' is an impressive deciduous tree prized for its spectacular spring flowers and handsome garden form. The large blooms...

From$515.35
magnolia-strawberry-fields-1
Magnolia 'Strawberry Fields'

Magnolia 'Strawberry Fields' is a striking deciduous tree prized for its richly coloured spring flowers and attractive garden form. The large blooms...

From$515.35
A beautiful Magnolia 'Star Wars' tree with masses of pink flowers.
Magnolia 'Star Wars'

Magnolia 'Star Wars' is a striking deciduous magnolia known for its large, star-shaped flowers in shades of deep pink with pale interiors. Blooming...

From$387.55
magnolia-vulcan-
Magnolia 'Vulcan'

Magnolia 'Vulcan' is an iconic deciduous magnolia bred in New Zealand and celebrated for its spectacular large deep crimson red flowers that appear...

From$270.40
A dark pink Magnolia 'Cameo' flower on a young tree before the foliage emerges.
Magnolia 'Cameo'

Magnolia 'Cameo' is a stunning deciduous magnolia prized for its upright, tulip-shaped flowers, which appear in early to mid-spring. The blooms are...

From$387.55
Magnolia 'Cleopatra' purple flowers.
Magnolia 'Cleopatra'

Magnolia 'Cleopatra' is a compact, upright deciduous magnolia bred in New Zealand and admired for its large, goblet-shaped, cerise-purple flowers...

From$270.40
magnolia-grandiflora-teddy-bear-4
Magnolia 'Teddy Bear'

Magnolia 'Teddy Bear' is a compact evergreen magnolia admired for its glossy dark green leaves with rich brown felted undersides and its large...

From$270.40
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Magnolia 'Honey Tulip'

Magnolia 'Honey Tulip' is an outstanding deciduous tree renowned for its rich golden yellow, tulip shaped flowers that appear in early spring before...

From$515.35
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Hemerocallis 'Wine Delight'

Hemerocallis 'Wine Delight' is a stunning daylily that produces masses of rich wine coloured blooms through summer, bringing vibrant colour and...

From$20.63
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu) tree juvenile foliage.
Dacrydium cupressinum (Rimu Tree)

Dacrydium cupressinum, commonly known as Rimu or Red Pine, is an iconic and slow-growing tree. The juvenile form features drooping branches densely...

From$99.29
Grape Sauvignon Blanc fruit hanging on a vine.
Grape 'Sauvignon Blanc'

Grape 'Sauvignon Blanc' is a world-famous white wine grape known for producing crisp, aromatic wines with notes of tropical fruit, lime, and...

From$29.95
weigela-wine-and-roses-2
Weigela 'Wine And Roses'

Weigela 'Wine and Roses' is a striking deciduous shrub renowned for its rich burgundy purple foliage and masses of vibrant rosy pink trumpet shaped...

From$25.53
pb-28-planter-bags-
PB28 Planter Bags (Christmas Tree Bag)

PB28 Planter Bags are a durable and economical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and other mature nursery stock. Their...

From$130.50
pb-60-planter-bags-
PB60 Planter Bags (Bag For Xmas Tree)

PB60 Planter Bags are a strong and practical option for growing large trees, shrubs, fruit plants, natives, and advanced nursery stock. Their...

From$169.50
ulmus-lobel-
Ulmus 'Lobel' (Dutch Elm Tree)

Ulmus 'Lobel' is a refined deciduous elm valued for its narrow upright form, dense green foliage, and excellent suitability as an avenue or specimen...

From$557.95
Magnolia grandiflora 'Russet'

Did you find what you are looking for?

You might be interested in exploring related Latin Names - Arctotis, Magnolia, and Michelia, or related Categories - Perennials, Evergreen Trees, and Magnolia Trees.

Search port wine magnolia tree

What Is a Port Wine Magnolia Tree?

The port wine magnolia tree, scientifically known as Michelia figo, stands out for its lush green foliage and subtly sweet, clove-like aroma. Its small, cup-shaped, cream or pale-yellow flowers with purple margins appear during spring and early summer, filling the garden air with their distinct scent, which is often compared to port wine. Reaching heights of 3–4 metres, this tree can be trimmed into hedges or shaped as a standalone specimen, making it a flexible choice for a variety of landscape styles.

For those interested in adding this lovely shrub to your garden, find more details and growing tips at Michelia figo (Portwine Magnolia).

Growing a Port Wine Magnolia Tree in New Zealand

The port wine magnolia tree thrives in well-drained, fertile soil and prefers a sheltered spot with dappled sunlight or partial shade, making it ideal for most New Zealand gardens. It tolerates light frosts once established and responds well to regular trimming, making it suitable for hedging or topiary. Mulch yearly to conserve moisture, and fertilise in early spring for optimal growth and flowering.

Design Ideas: Using Port Wine Magnolia Trees

A port wine magnolia tree is perfect for fragrant hedges, formal garden borders, or as an evergreen privacy screen. Their dense habit provides wind protection while the foliage and flowers attract pollinators and add year-round greenery. Plant near windows, doors, or outdoor seating areas to fully enjoy their beautiful scent.

If you’re considering incorporating other magnolias, explore the richly coloured Magnolia Old Port or the bold-flowered Magnolia Kay Parris (Magnolia grandiflora Kay Parris) for variety in fragrance, colour, and habit.

Other Magnolia Varieties to Complement Your Garden

Magnolias come in an exciting range of forms, each bringing their unique charm. For a grand focal point, try the evergreen Magnolia Jade Emperor (Evergreen Magnolia Jade Emperor), or enjoy the spectacular blooms of the deciduous Magnolia Charles Raffill (Magnolia campbellii Charles Raffill). Each of these varieties works beautifully when planted in combination with the port wine magnolia tree, creating a garden full of texture, fragrance, and seasonal interest.

Why Choose a Port Wine Magnolia Tree?

The port wine magnolia tree offers New Zealand gardeners beauty, fragrance, and versatility, thriving in a range of conditions with minimal maintenance. Whether you wish to create a scented hedge or an ornamental highlight, this tree will reward you with evergreen appeal and charming flowers every year. Explore our selection of magnolias, and start planning your perfect scented garden today.

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.

Illustration of plant leaves.
The spotlight often lands on Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily' and Lomandra Lime Tuff, but Neomarica northiana, Prunus autumnalis 'Rosea', and Acer palmatum 'Beni Otake' deserve a standing ovation too.
–The Plant Company

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