Magnolia x soulangeana Perhaps the most popular of the deciduous hybrid magnolias, Magnolia x soulangeana is a good choice for a small garden, as it is a shapely, slow-growing, upright shrub, spreading gracefully as it matures into a multi-stemmed shrub or small tree. Masses of huge (up to 10”/25cm across) goblet-shaped, white or rose-pink flowers appear in April–May, just as the large, deep green leaves begin to unfold. As the flowers open they reveal pale interiors, contrasting with the deeper outer petals. Foliage turns golden-brown in autumn. Very little pruning required; prune in late summer to prevent ‘bleeding’. Site: ShelteredSoil: Reasonably well drained neutral to acid soilPosition: Full sun or partial shadeSeason of Interest: Spring, summerHardiness: Fully hardyHeight: 20’ (6m) Spread: 20’ (6m)