Magnolia

Magnolias are one of the oldest flowering plants on Earth and exhibit a number of primitive aspects. Their petals and sepals lack distinction and flowers feature numerous, spirally arranged flower parts. Beetles, a very ancient insect, are attracted to the flower’s scent and white color. As they crawl around the flower, munching on its parts, they deliver and carry pollen, unknowingly assisting in the reproduction of its food source.

Today, magnolias are prized for their large and fragrant flowers. There are about 210 species with new varieties and hybrids appearing each year, with flower colors of white, pink, red, purple and even yellow.

Magnolia grandiflora or “Southern Magnolia” is the classic magnolia with glossy leaves and big, fragrant white blooms. This tree is an evergreen but other magnolia species, like M. x soulangeana or Chinese Magnoli, are deciduous. Both magnolias are found at Descanso Gardens.