A few weeks ago, the entrance to our local YMCA was full of beautiful light pink and white blooms. This was during an unusually warm stretch of nigh 70-degree weather
It was really beautiful to be greeted by this flowering tree. Because of its colorful and conspicuous flowers, landscape designers use this tree extensively as an ornamental.
I’m not sure about the correct name of this tree, but heard it called either a Saucer Magnolia or Tulip Magnolia. An online source stated that the Saucer Magnolia is a multi-stemmed, spreading tree, 25 ft. tall with a 20 to 30-ft. spread. Blooms open in late winter to early spring often before the leaves, producing large, white flowers shaded in pink, creating a spectacular flower display.
Other sources indicated that the plant was native to southwest China but cultivated for centuries elsewhere in China and then Japan. It was first introduced to English-speaking countries from cultivated Japanese origins. For this reason, it’s sometimes referred to as Japanese Magnolia, although it’s not native to Japan.
Spectacular as these blooms were, they were also gone within a week, especially after an overnight rain storm knocked off many of the delicate blooms.
That same week, when visiting our county library, there were two similar trees in full bloom – more local beauty to enjoy, however briefly.
15 comments:
That is soo beautiful ! Wonderful photos !
So pretty and in my favorite color!
Back in Chicago, we had one of these Magnolias in our front yard at our very first house. It was lovely and the blooms lasted varying amounts of time each year depending on the weather. I never knew there was any other kind of magnolia until I moved back down South a few years ago. The Southern Magnolia is a huge tree with enormous white blooms. I much prefer this type which is much smaller with prettier pink blooms.
I actually miss it, because they won't grow where its too hot and that completely leaves out Texas!! lol!
The only name I have ever heard them called was "star magnolia".
Magnolias sure do put out a display. They grow down in Vancouver ... and the rain does make short order of their beauty.
They are popular here, but the blooms don't last long. This year even less time because of the rain!
Those in our area lost all their blossoms overnight thanks to a sudden cold snap last weekend that even brought SNOW flurries briefly.
We have one of these and have always just known it as a Magnolia. It blooms Easter week most years. It's always gorgeous! :)
These are so pretty! You're right, the blooms aren't around very long. All the more reason to enjoy them as much as we can while they are here. :)
Magnolias are so beautiful, to cold here where I live for almost every one of them. There are loads of hybrids now days but my guess is that this is a Magnolia soulangea.
Have a great day!
Christer.
Never heard them called anything but Tulip Magnolias here, tho sometimes just Tulip trees which they aren't, we know, but a name is a name.
They are a sure sign of spring, tho, whatever their name.
beautiful YMCA, i can see the door in one shot, great idea to put them there and at the library. so beautiful even if they only last a few days.
Thanks Elaine (Country Girl) & Kathleen (Eggs in My Pocket), these were colorful for a short time.
Mellodee, the Southern Magnolias are not in bloom yet, but will be quite outstanding very soon. We never had any of these blooms when we lived in NJ.
Hi Eileen (Cicero Sings) and John (Don't Unplug) seems you both have lots of rain in common lately.
Hey CHip, we missed getting any snow here on the VA eastern shore.
Lois, I never realized there were different varieties of magnolias either. We don't have any in our yard, just crepe myrtles.
Daisy, glad you enjoyed these!
Christer, thanks for the info on the magnolia; I'll post some of the large Southern magnolia photos when I find one in bloom near us, still a bit too early.
Possum, I didn't know there were various names till I did a lookup.
Hi Sandra, we do enjoy the "Y" and even though ours is small compared to some areas, we're thankful to even have one so close by.
You always have the prettiest photos! This tree was always first to bloom at our last home and most often got nipped by cold weather. As the blooms age, they have a sweet fragrance. Thanks for reminding me of these lovely blooms. Have a nice afternoon. Mildred
Very beautiful!
You're right. Gorgeous.
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