Plant Profile: Magnolia 'Jane'

Jane Magnolia is a hybrid variety from the Little Girl Series, developed at the National Arboretum through the crossbreeding of M. liliiflora ‘Nigra’ and M. stellata ‘Rosea’. This series typically blooms 2 to 4 weeks later than other magnolia species, from mid-April to early May, which helps reduce the risk of flower bud loss due to late frosts. The 'Jane' variety is characterized by its bushy growth and striking large purple-red flowers featuring white centers.

This plant thrives in moist, nutrient-rich, well-drained soils and prefers full sun to partial shade, ideally in neutral to slightly acidic conditions. To maintain soil moisture, regular mulching around the root zone is beneficial. It can be planted as a standout specimen in a lawn, used to create a privacy hedge, positioned along a foundation, or placed in the middle to back of a shrub border or at the edge of a woodland. Additionally, it shows resilience to heavy clay soils and air pollution. Pruning should be done sparingly after flowering to preserve its shape. It is advisable to avoid transplanting this shrub, as its fleshy roots are prone to damage; therefore, selecting the right location from the outset is crucial.