Magnolia ‘Cameo’ – A Compact Magnolia with Elegant Two-Tone Tulip Flowers
Magnolia ‘Cameo’ is a compact, deciduous magnolia prized for its upright tulip-shaped flowers in rich burgundy-purple with soft pink interiors. Flowering in spring before the leaves emerge, it creates a dramatic and refined focal point in smaller gardens.
Magnolia ‘Cameo’ is a slow-growing, upright variety that produces large, goblet-shaped blooms held upright on bare branches in early to mid-spring. The outer petals are deep rosy-purple, contrasting beautifully with the paler pink interior, giving the flowers a sculptural, almost porcelain appearance. Its neat habit makes it especially suitable for modern gardens or where space is limited.
Why Grow Magnolia ‘Cameo’?
Striking Two-Tone Flowers –
Elegant, upright blooms display rich purple-red exteriors with softer pink interiors for a dramatic spring show.
Compact and Upright Habit –
Ideal for smaller gardens, courtyard settings, or large containers.
Early Spring Interest –
Flowers appear before the foliage, creating a stunning display on bare branches.
Slow Growing and Manageable –
Develops into a well-shaped small tree or large shrub without becoming overwhelming.
Reliable and Hardy –
Hardy in most temperate gardens and dependable once established.
Height and Spread of Magnolia ‘Cameo’
Typically grows to approximately 3–4m in height with a spread of 1.5–2.5m, maintaining a narrow, upright form.
Where to Site Your Magnolia ‘Cameo’
Feature Planting:
Perfect as a specimen tree in lawns or central border positions.
Small Gardens:
Its compact size makes it suitable for limited spaces.
Sheltered Borders:
Plant in a protected position away from strong winds to protect early blooms.
Courtyard or Patio Settings:
Can be grown in a large container with suitable care.
How to Grow and Care for Magnolia ‘Cameo’
Soil –
Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil rich in organic matter. Avoid waterlogged or highly alkaline soils.
Light –
Best in full sun to partial shade. A sheltered spot encourages the best flowering.
Watering –
Keep soil consistently moist while establishing. Avoid prolonged dry periods.
Maintenance
Feeding –
Apply a balanced fertiliser in early spring to support flowering and growth.
Pruning –
Minimal pruning required. If necessary, prune lightly in mid-summer after flowering.
Mulching –
Apply organic mulch annually to conserve moisture and protect shallow roots.
Pest & Disease Resistance –
Generally trouble-free when grown in suitable conditions.
Does the height include the pot?
No, we measure from the top of the pot to the tip of the plant except for some of the instant planted screens, in this case it will be stated in the description
How long does delivery take?
Most orders are delivered in just a few days, Smaller items are often sent with Parcelforce on a next day service, Larger items should allow up to 10 days due to the size of the items they often have to be sent on our own transport.
Where will you leave my plants?
We will leave your order at the front of your property, Parcelforce may
leave your items in a safe place if you let us know, Pallet couriers
will require a flat hard surface to deliver to, no gravel or soil, a
driveway or parking spot would be best. Most importantly Deliveries by
pallet courier will require access for a large truck (bin lorry sized)
to get near the delivery point. Deliveries sent on our own transport may come in a small van or larger truck.