Magnolia grandiflora 'Gallisoniensis' – A Majestic Evergreen Magnolia with Glossy Foliage and Scented Summer Blooms
Magnolia grandiflora 'Gallisoniensis' is a truly impressive evergreen tree, admired for its bold, glossy green leaves, rich copper-toned undersides, and magnificent creamy-white flowers. Originating from the southern United States and adapted for European gardens, this cultivar offers year-round foliage interest and large, fragrant blooms in late summer that exude timeless elegance and charm.
Whether grown as a feature tree, trained against a warm wall, or clipped into a stately standard form, 'Gallisoniensis' is a long-lived and luxurious choice for adding grandeur and structure to both traditional and modern gardens.
Why Grow Magnolia grandiflora 'Gallisoniensis'?
Glossy, Evergreen Foliage
This magnolia’s leathery, deep green leaves have a lustrous shine and rich, velvet-brown undersides that bring depth and texture to the landscape year-round. Even in winter, the foliage remains bold and architectural.
Fragrant, Show-Stopping Flowers
In summer, 'Gallisoniensis' produces large, creamy-white, goblet-shaped blooms up to 20–25cm across. Each flower is beautifully scented with a citrusy, lemon-vanilla fragrance that fills the air on warm days.
Classic Elegance, Modern Versatility
With its dense, upright habit, this cultivar works beautifully as a free-standing ornamental tree, a specimen in a lawn, or trained flat against walls or fences as an espalier. It adds instant maturity and elegance to any garden design.
Low Maintenance, Long-Lived
Though slow-growing, 'Gallisoniensis' is remarkably tough and easy to care for once established. It is wind-resistant, drought-tolerant, and largely pest-free—making it a practical as well as beautiful choice.
Planting & Care Guide
Position:
Thrives in full sun to partial shade. Best planted in a sheltered spot with protection from harsh, cold winds.
Soil:
Prefers rich, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral soil. Tolerates clay or loam if drainage is adequate.
Watering:
Keep moist during establishment. Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant but benefits from regular watering in hot, dry periods.
Feeding:
Feed in spring with a balanced slow-release fertiliser. Mulch annually with compost or well-rotted manure to retain moisture and enrich the soil.
Pruning:
Minimal pruning needed. Remove dead or crossing branches in late winter or early spring. Can be trained as espalier or pleached if desired.
Perfect Plant Combinations
Formal Design – Use as a central feature in a formal lawn or clipped garden with yew, box, or evergreen hedging.
Walled Gardens & Espaliers – Train against brick or stone walls to showcase both foliage and flowers, particularly in smaller gardens where space is limited.
Seasonal Companions – Underplant with spring bulbs like snowdrops and tulips, or summer favourites like Agapanthus and Hydrangeas for a layered, elegant effect.
Exotic Themes – Pair with palms, phormiums or tree ferns for a lush, subtropical look in sheltered gardens.
Magnolia grandiflora 'Gallisoniensis' is a plant of true presence and permanence. With its glossy, year-round foliage and fragrant late-summer blooms, it offers a balance of structure and softness that few trees can match. Whether gracing a formal entrance or adding romance to a secluded corner, it brings enduring beauty to any garden.
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.
