Michelia figo (Port Wine Magnolia)

How to grow a Michelia figo hedge

The Michelia figo hedge spacing is generally 50 cm between the plants. If you want the hedge to fill in more quickly, you can reduce the spacing to 40 cm. However, going wider than 50 cm will have two effects. The first is that the gap between the plants at the base will be harder to fill in, and this can cause frustration. The second is that the plants will tend to grow wider rather than upward. At a closer spacing, the plants compete for light, and in doing so, they push each other upwards. Therefore, The Plant Company recommends a spacing of 40-50 cm to achieve an impressive hedge. If large grade plants (25L pot size or more) are purchased, the spacing can be increased to 1 m apart, as the plants have already been manicured to be bushy. Start trimming the sides of the hedge once active growth starts to achieve a denser hedge.

Michelia figo (Port Wine Magnolia) care tips

Plant Michelia figo in a sunny to partially shaded spot with well-drained, fertile soil. Water the plant regularly during dry periods, especially when it is young or establishing. Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds, keeping it clear of the trunk. Feed in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser to encourage healthy growth and flowering. Lightly prune after flowering to maintain shape. Protect from heavy frost when young, and shelter from strong winds to preserve the delicate blooms.

Michelia figo plants for sale

The Plant Company has the best Michelia figo plants for sale in NZ. Our production nursery specialises in growing amazing plants, and our logistics team packs them carefully for our customers. The pricing is competitive and the quality is exceptional. Let us take care of your Port Wine Magnolia needs and impress you with both our products and services!

Where can I buy a Michelia figo standard?

Standard Michelia figo plants are a speciality for some of our wholesalers, and they can come in different standard heights. If you can’t find the size or standard height you are after in our pricing table above, just email us at shop@theplantcompany.co.nz, and the team will endeavour to fill your needs with high-quality plants.

When is the best time for planting Michelia figo?

The best time to plant Michelia figo is during the dormant season, which spans from autumn to spring. However, the optimal timing within this period is spring, as the warming soil encourages better root establishment. This allows the young tree to settle in well before the heat of summer arrives. You can still plant in summer, provided careful attention is paid to watering.

Michelia figo topiary

Michelia figo can easily be trained as a topiary. It has small, glossy, dark green leaves that are densely packed. This characteristic makes it ideal for shaping into formal topiary designs, such as balls, cones, or standards. It also responds well to pruning, which is essential for maintaining the desired topiary shape. Regular trimming encourages bushier growth and helps define the form. It is a good choice for creating attractive and fragrant topiary specimens, adding a touch of formality and evergreen structure to various garden settings.