Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Rustica Rubra’ – Rosy Purple Spring Beauty
Description
Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Rustica Rubra’ is a superb magnolia cultivar, renowned for its profusion of large, tulip-shaped blooms. Appearing in March and April, the flowers are rich rosy-purple on the outside and creamy white within, creating dramatic contrast against bare spring branches.
Its elegant, rounded habit makes it a perfect lawn or border specimen, while the deep-green summer foliage provides structure through the growing season. In autumn, leaves turn golden, extending seasonal appeal. Strong, hardy, and reliable, this magnolia adds classic beauty to any garden.
Size & Growth
A medium-sized magnolia, typically reaching 4–6 m tall and wide, with a rounded crown.
Growing Conditions
Best in full sun or partial shade, in fertile, moist but well-drained soil. Protect flower buds from late frosts by planting in a sheltered spot.
Why Choose Magnolia ‘Rustica Rubra’?
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Showy Spring Flowers – Rosy-purple outside, white within.
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Seasonal Interest – Spring flowers, lush summer foliage, autumn colour.
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Excellent Specimen – Ideal for lawns and borders.
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Hardy & Reliable – Long-lived with minimal care needs.
Planting & Care Guide
Position: Full sun or partial shade; best flowering in sun.
Soil: Fertile, moist, well-drained, slightly acidic to neutral.
Watering: Keep evenly moist, especially while establishing.
Feeding: Mulch with organic matter in spring; ericaceous feed if soil is neutral.
Pruning: Minimal – prune only lightly in midsummer to remove damaged or crossing branches.
Design & Planting Ideas
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Plant as a specimen tree on lawns for maximum spring impact.
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Combine with bulbs like narcissus or scilla for layered seasonal displays.
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Works beautifully with azaleas, camellias, and rhododendrons in acid-loving schemes.
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A strong choice for medium-sized gardens needing a feature tree.
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.