Magnolia figo is a plant that is native to China and Japan. It is a member of the magnolia family and is closely related to the Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). The plant is also known as the Chinese magnolia, fig magnolia, and the banana shrub. The magnolia figo is a popular ornamental plant and is often used in bonsai. The plant grows to a height of 15-20 feet and has large, dark green leaves. The flowers are white and have a strong fragrance. The plant blooms in the spring and summer.
Related plant:
Magnolia Stellata
About soil condition, magnolia figo grows well in various types of soils as long as the drainage is good. It is adaptable to both slightly acidic and slightly alkaline soils. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It can also tolerate a wide range of soil moisture conditions, from well-drained to seasonally wet soils.
Like the other plants, the sun is vital to the survival of the magnolia figo. Without it, the plant would eventually die. The sun gives the plant the energy it needs to grow and produce food. It also helps the plant to stay healthy by providing vitamin D and other essential nutrients.
The temperature condition of Magnolia figo is that it requires a minimum temperature of 60°F (15°C) to flower. With lower temperatures, the plant will still flower, but the buds will be damaged and the flower petals will be smaller. The ideal temperature for this plant is between 70°F (21°C) and 80°F (27°C). When the temperature gets too hot, the flower buds will begin to fall off the plant.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is around 50%. If the humidity is too low, the leaves will start to wilt and the plant will become stressed. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow and the plant will become more susceptible to fungal diseases.
Mentioning fertilizer, usually the plant will require more nitrogen. An all-purpose granular fertilizer is best for reaching deep into the root system. For a mature tree, use 1/2 to 1 pound of nitrogen fertilizer per year. Slow-release fertilizer is also an option and will last longer than one application of granular fertilizer. If the tree is young, you can use a fertilizer with a higher nitrogen content. Use 1/4 to 1/2 pound of nitrogen fertilizer per year.
Pruning is an important part of keeping your magnolia figo healthy and looking its best. Prune in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Cut back any dead or diseased branches, and any branches that are rubbing against each other. You can also prune to shape the plant, or to control its size.
Propagation for the magnolia figo is best performed through softwood cuttings taken from the new growth of the plant. The cuttings should be 6-8 inches long and the bottom 2 inches should be dipped in rooting hormone. They should be planted in a well-draining potting mix and kept moist. Once the cuttings have rooted, they can be transplanted into their permanent location.
Usually, the plant growth rate is about 10 inches per year. However, some plants may grow more slowly or quickly, depending on the variety. For example, the Alba and Susquehanna varieties grow more slowly than other varieties.
Common problems for this kind of plant are mostly related to watering. If the plant is too dry, the leaves will turn brown and crisp. If the plant is too wet, the leaves will yellow and drop off. The best way to avoid these problems is to water the plant regularly and evenly.
Source:
Magnolia figo (J. de Loureiro) C.P.J. Sprengei Banana-Shrub
Magnolia figo {Magnoliaceae} Banana Shrub, Port Wine Magnolia
Michelia figo - UF/IFAS Assessment - University of Florida
