Key features
Final size8m x 4m in 20 years
FlowersLarge, yellow flowers
PositionFull sun to part shade
SoilPrefers moist yet well-draining soil
Description
Magnolia denudata ‘Yellow River’ is a deciduous tree or large shrub with an upright habit that can grow to an approximate height of 8 meters and a spread of 4 meters. This variety boasts a conical shape with lush mid-green leaves that unfurl after the tree blooms in spring. True to its name, ‘Yellow River’ produces an abundance of large, sweetly fragrant goblet-shaped flowers that are butter-yellow in color. As the flowers mature, they open and fade to cream while retaining a yellow base, creating a stunning visual effect.
Yellow River magnolia thrives in moist, well-drained soils and prefers a position in full sun to partial shade. It is an excellent choice for adding vibrant color and architectural interest to garden borders, as a specimen tree, or in mixed shrub borders.
AKA: yulan [Yellow River], Magnolia denudata ‘Fei Huang’, Magnolia ‘Fei Huang’,
Planting Steps
1Preparation
- Pot-grown plants can be planted at any time of year, whereas bare roots need to be planted between November and March.
- Clear weeds and grass within a metre of the planting hole.
- Dig a hole as deep as the root mass and twice as wide.
- To help your plant establish more effectively, sprinkle Rootgrow in the hole.
2Planting
- Gently loosen the roots and place into the planting hole.
- Ensure the top of the plant’s compost is flush with the level of the surrounding soil and the graft union or collar of the tree is above ground level.
- Mix 50% of the original soil with 50% compost.
- Fill in the hole, firming the soil gently.
3Last Steps
- Water generously around the base of the plant.
- If you are planting either a single stem tree or mature standard tree, we recommend adding a staking kit and rabbit guard.
Aftercare Advice
Magnolia require a good watering regime for a couple of years whilst they establish. Water well and regularly through spring and summer, increasing in hot or dry weather. If planting in autumn, you may only need to water a little. It is advisable to keep the area free of competing weeds and grass during this period.
Magnolia trees and shrubs can be pruned into shape by removing branches that are growing in an awkward position, as well as any that are damaged. They should not be heavily pruned as this can send them into shock. If pruning to limit the overall size, stagger your pruning over a few years to alleviate the stress on your tree. Pruning for Magnolia should be carried out in mid-summer to early autumn. Avoid pruning in late winter to early spring.
For more detailed advice and video guides, please visit our Help & Advice section.
