Michelia

Family. Magnoliaceae.

Origin. Southeast Asia.

Description. The genus Michelia consists of 50 species of evergreen trees and shrubs. Young shoots and leaves are covered with small, delicate pubescence. The leaves are oblong-lanceolate, pointed, green, glossy, 15 - 18 cm long, often folded along the central vein. The flowers are large - up to 5 cm in diameter, white or pastel orange, yellow, pink, and have a very pleasant and strong fruity aroma.

Height. It grows slowly, the height is regulated by pruning.

Care at home

Temperature conditions

The optimal temperature range is 16 - 24° C. In the winter months, the temperature can be reduced, but 12° C is considered the minimum acceptable.

Lighting

Early in the morning or evening, the plant can take sunbaths, but it is better to protect the plant from direct rays during the daytime. Michelia also grows well in partial shade, and it will bloom almost as profusely.

Care

After flowering, long shoots can be trimmed with sharp, sterile pruning shears to give the plant a compact shape. The tree will appreciate being outdoors during the warmer months. The tips of young shoots are pinched to form a dense, branched crown.

Substrate

Well-drained, organic-rich substrate with peat and leaf humus, neutral to acidic pH. 

Feeding

During active growth, feed with water-soluble fertilizer at half strength every 2 weeks. 

Purpose

It is advisable to grow in large rooms - winter gardens, halls as a large tub plant.

Flowering time

Spring Summer.

Air humidity

Michelia can adapt to dry air, but it is better to periodically spray the plant with water at room temperature or use a tray with wet pebbles. 

Soil moisture

In spring and summer, water abundantly and regularly, completely wetting the soil; the remaining moisture must be drained from the pan. Between waterings, the top layer of soil should dry out a little. In autumn, the frequency of watering is reduced and in the winter months the soil is dried to a depth of approximately 10 cm. It is advisable to use soft water for watering. 

Transfer

Replant in the spring, as needed to change the size of the pot or when it is necessary to change the soil. For large tub plants, the top layer of soil is changed annually. 

Reproduction

The seeds are sown in the spring, but it will take several years to obtain an adult bush. Stem cuttings about 10 cm long easily root in a damp mixture of peat and sand in the spring and summer. The rooting process takes about 1.5 months.

Pests and diseases

Leaf tips turn brown when there is a lack of moisture. Leaf spot.

The most common pests are scale insects and spider mites.  

Note

An essential oil with a pleasant aroma is obtained from Michelia flowers.