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Alba Superba

Magnolia x soulangeana

Alba Superba features large white tulip-shaped flowers with creamy-pink bases.  It is one of the first Magnolias to flower, usually in early April in the UK.

The fragrant flowers apear on bare branches, with the leaves following later in the spring.

Alba Superba magnolia trees for sale

  • 3-year pot-grown tree £85.00
    In a 12L pot
    Very large size (4m-7m after 10 years)
    Out of stock
    Sorry we have sold out for this season

How to grow

This relatively slow-growing Magnolia can be maintained with a single stem but its natural habit is to become a small multi-stemmed tree of 5m or so.

For best results plant in a sheltered location in full sun - the early-flowering blooms are delicate.

History

Alba Superba is a good example of the hybrid Magnolia species Magnolia x soulangeana which was first developed in France in the 1820s.  The key characteristics are the relatively early flowering period, the large tulip-shaped / saucer-shaped scented flowers, and the dense branching shrub-like habit. It is one of the most widely-planted Magnolia species, and grows well in the UK.

Alba Superba characteristics

  • Gardening skillBeginner
  • Attractive featuresAttractive flowersScented flowers
  • Growth habitUpright-spreading / Vase
  • Height after 10 years3m-5m / 10ft-16ft
  • SunlightPrefers full sun
  • PruningNo need to prune
  • Growth rateSlow
  • Site conditionsSheltered siteFree-draining site
  • Flower colourWhite
  • Flower formSemi-double flower (10-20 petals)
  • Flowering monthApril
  • Leaf colourGreen
  • Leaf/Flower sequenceFlowers appear first
  • Country of originBelgium
  • Annual cycleDeciduous

This variety description was researched and written by Orange Pippin staff. Last checked: 2022.