Magnolia George Henry Kern A hybrid between Magnolia stellata and Magnolia liliiflora Nigra, Magnolia George Henry Kern is a slow-growing, medium-sized, deciduous shrub with a compact, almost pyramidal habit, suitable even for small gardens. The shiny, fresh green leaves are elliptical in shape, and turn copper-bronze in autumn. Beautifully scented, soft pink, goblet-shaped flowers, with a deeper pink flush on the outside of the eight petals, are borne in March-April from rose-pink buds, with a few flowers appearing in July. Tolerates urban pollution, and requires minimal pruning and care, although a mulch is recommended to prevent the shallow roots from drying out. Magnolia George Henry Kern is one of the longest-flowering magnolias, and holds the RHS Award of Garden Merit. Site: Sheltered; south to south-westerly aspectSoil: Moist but well-drained, neutral to acid soilPosition: Flowers best in full sun or light shadeSeason of interest: March to April in particularHardiness: Fully hardyHeight: 13’ (4m) Spread: 8’ (2.5m) in 20 years