Magnolia grandiflora ‘Goliath’ – Evergreen Magnolia with Large Fragrant Flowers
Magnolia grandiflora ‘Goliath’ is an impressive evergreen magnolia, prized for its large, fragrant summer flowers and bold glossy foliage. Throughout summer, enormous creamy-white blooms open against a backdrop of rich green leaves, releasing a sweet, lemony fragrance that drifts through the garden.
The foliage is equally striking, with thick, leathery leaves that are deep green on the upper surface and warm rusty-brown beneath. This contrast adds depth and texture, giving the tree a strong architectural presence even when not in flower.
With its upright, stately growth, ‘Goliath’ makes a magnificent specimen tree for lawns, large borders, or sheltered gardens. It also works beautifully as a focal point in formal planting schemes where its evergreen structure can be appreciated throughout the year.
Best grown in a warm, sheltered position with well-drained soil, this magnolia thrives in sun or partial shade. Once established, it is hardy and relatively low maintenance, requiring little pruning beyond occasional shaping.
Elegant, dramatic, and wonderfully fragrant, Magnolia grandiflora ‘Goliath’ brings year-round structure and spectacular summer blooms to UK gardens.
Seasonal Highlights
Spring: Fresh glossy foliage develops.
Summer: Large fragrant white flowers bloom.
Autumn: Evergreen leaves maintain structure.
Winter: Dense foliage provides year-round interest.
Key Features
Huge white flowers – Dramatic summer blooms.
Highly fragrant – Sweet citrus scent.
Evergreen foliage – Glossy leaves all year.
Rusty-brown leaf undersides – Attractive colour contrast.
Architectural tree – Strong structural presence.
Perfect For
Specimen planting – Standalone focal tree.
Sheltered gardens – Best flowering performance.
Formal gardens – Strong evergreen structure.
Large borders – Adds height and presence.
Mediterranean-style planting – Complements warm planting schemes.
Growing Tips
Sun/Position: Full sun to partial shade; sheltered from cold winds.
Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; slightly acidic to neutral preferred.
Hardiness: Hardy in most UK gardens when sheltered.
Care: Minimal pruning; shape lightly after flowering if needed.