Magnolia X. soulangeana Ruth

Common Name: Magnolia 'Ruth'

Description: Magnolia 'Ruth' is a deciduous small tree known for its large, cup-and-saucer-shaped flowers that bloom in early spring. The blossoms exhibit a rich rosy-purple hue, creating a striking visual display against the bare branches. This cultivar is a hybrid between Magnolia campbellii 'Lanarth' and Magnolia liliiflora 'Nigra', resulting in a plant that flowers from a young age and serves as a later-flowering alternative to 'Lanarth'. 'Ruth' thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soils. Its upright growth habit makes it suitable for smaller gardens, and its hardiness allows it to withstand Melbourne's climate. Protection from strong winds and late frosts will help preserve the integrity of its early blooms.

Form:

• Tree - Small

Mature Size:

• Height: Approximately 4–6 metres
• Width: Approximately 3–4 metres

Aspect:

• Full Sun
• Part Shade

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring

Flower Colour:

• Rich rosy-purple

Key Attributes:

• Flowers from a young age
• Suitable for small gardens
• Later flowering, reducing frost damage risk

Toxicity:

• No known toxicity to humans or animals

Companion Plants:

• Azaleas
• Rhododendrons
• Camellias
• Hydrangeas
• Japanese Maples