SWEET MICHELIA
Michelia doltsopa
FAMILY Magnoliaceae
SYNONYMS
Magnolia doltsopa
ADDITIONAL COMMON NAMES
See: all Michelia
GENERAL INFO
This tree is known for its fragrant, creamy white flowers that bloom in the spring, filling the air with a delightful scent. Its dark green, glossy leaves provide a lush backdrop for the blossoms, making it a stunning addition to any urban landscape. The tree has a graceful, upright growth habit, often forming a dense canopy that offers ample shade. It thrives in well-drained soil and prefers a sunny spot, though it can tolerate partial shade. This tree is also relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning to maintain its shape and health.
Native range: China and Western HimalayasHorticultural use: ScreenSchoolyard Use: This tree has glossy, dark green leaves that can be used to teach about leaf anatomy and the role of evergreen species. Its fragrant, creamy-white flowers are perfect for lessons on pollination and plant reproduction. The flowers bloom in clusters, making them easy to observe and study. The tree's dense foliage provides ample shade, creating a comfortable outdoor learning environment.
Native range: China and Western HimalayasHorticultural use: ScreenSchoolyard Use: This tree has glossy, dark green leaves that can be used to teach about leaf anatomy and the role of evergreen species. Its fragrant, creamy-white flowers are perfect for lessons on pollination and plant reproduction. The flowers bloom in clusters, making them easy to observe and study. The tree's dense foliage provides ample shade, creating a comfortable outdoor learning environment.
TREE CHARACTERISTICS
Tree Shape: Conical or RoundedFoliage Type: EvergreenMaximum Tree Height: 40 feetCanopy Width: 15-20 feetGrowth Rate: ~12 in/yearLeaf Arrangement and Leaf Form: Alternate, SimpleLeaf Shape: OvalLeaf color: Dark GreenFlowers: Showy, FragrantFlower Color: Cream or Green or WhiteFlower Type: Has male and female reproductive parts in each flower (perfect)Flower Time: Winter or SpringFruit: Medium Red or Mostly Green CapsuleFruiting time: SummerBark Color: Dark Gray, SmoothLitter Type: Dry Fruit, Flowers
SITE CONDITIONS
Recommended Planting Area: 4' to 7'Schoolyard Trees: YesWater Use Rating: MediumSunset Climate Zone: 14 - 24Shade Tolerance: NoUSDA Hardiness Zone: 9Soil Texture: Loam or SandSoil pH: Very Acidic to Slightly AlkalineSalt Tolerance: Moderate
CONSIDERATIONS
Branch Strength: MediumRoot Damage Potential: LowPotential health issues: No known hazardsUtility Friendly: NoWCISA Appraisal: Suggested LCANT 24" box, Group 2, Approx. cross sectional area 2.24 sq. in.
External Resources
CITE THIS TREE
"SelecTree. UFEI. "Michelia doltsopa Tree Record." 1995-2025. Cal
Poly State University, San Luis Obispo. Accessed on Jun 2, 2025."
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/941 >
< https://selectree.calpoly.edu/tree-detail/941 >
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