Magnolia zenii, or Zen Magnolia is a rare tree in cultivation and especially in the wild: reduced to a single natural population of 18 individuals on Mt. Baohua, China. No natural regeneration has been observed. Here at the UGA Horticulture Farm, M. zenii has been the earliest flowering Magnolia consistently since planted in 2001. Data regarding M. zenii is scarce do to its almost extinction level status. We are lucky to have a massive, 30 foot specimen at the Durham Horticulture Farm that is in full flower as I write this article. No widespread breeding or seed increase studies have been initiated on any scale anywhere which is odd due to its rarity…Breeding opportunities are limitless….I might collect seed this fall.
Magnolia zenii hybridizes freely with other members of the Magnolia family. One such seedling from the Arnold Arboretum has been named ‘Pink Parchment’ by Michael Dirr: and that is the cultivar residing at the farm.
The employees here at the farm and visitors are always wondering what that big beautiful tree in the back by the pond is…well now you know. And although Magnolias are known for their beautiful, fragrant blooms…. M. zenii ‘Pink Parchment’ is a stunning tree in summer as well, I believe this tree has potential in urban areas or used in an allée…or in my front yard….cheers.
