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Description
Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra, also known as the Rustica Rubra Magnolia, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Magnoliaceae family. It is a hybrid of Magnolia denudata and Magnolia liliiflora, which was first bred in France in the 19th century. This magnolia variety is well-known for its stunning, large, and showy flowers, which bloom in early spring.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Magnoliaceae |
| Genus | Magnolia |
Appearance
Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra can grow up to 20-30 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide. The tree has an upright habit and a rounded canopy. The leaves are large, glossy, and dark green, growing up to 6 inches long and 3 inches wide. The flowers are the main attraction, appearing in early spring before the leaves. They are large, cup-shaped, and can grow up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers are pinkish-red on the outside and white on the inside, with a delicate fragrance that fills the air.
Care Guide
Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra requires regular maintenance to thrive. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the tree deeply once a week during the growing season, and reduce watering during the winter.
- Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring before the new growth appears.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Add organic matter to improve soil quality.
- Sunlight: Plant the tree in full sun to partial shade for optimal growth and flowering.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra is generally pest-resistant but can be susceptible to certain diseases, including:
- Leaf spot: Caused by fungi, it can cause brown spots on the leaves.
- Scale insects: These insects can infest the tree, causing yellowing of the leaves and stunted growth.
- Canker: Caused by fungi, it can cause sunken spots on the bark and cankers that ooze sap.
Habitat
Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra is native to China but is widely cultivated in gardens and parks around the world. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a range of temperatures and climates.
Question and Answer
Q: When does Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra bloom?
A: The tree blooms in early spring before the leaves appear.
Q: How tall can Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra grow?
A: The tree can grow up to 20-30 feet tall.
Q: What is the hardiness zone for Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra?
A: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Q: What is the flower color of Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra?
A: The flowers are pinkish-red on the outside and white on the inside.
Related Plants
- Magnolia denudata
- Magnolia liliiflora
- Magnolia soulangeana
- Magnolia stellata
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2009). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- Gilman, E. F., & Watson, D. G. (1994). Magnolia soulangeana ‘Rustica Rubra’. Fact Sheet ST-422. Environmental Horticulture Department, Florida Cooperative Extension Service, Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, University of Florida.
- “Magnolia Soulangeana Rustica Rubra.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b470.
