Magnolia champaca – Champak

Description

Magnolia champaca – Champak

Family: Magnoliaceae
Packet Size: 10 seeds

Description

Champak, Magnolia champaca (formerly Michelia champaca), is an evergreen tree from tropical Asia renowned for its richly perfumed blooms. Slender-petalled flowers range from creamy yellow to deep golden or orange, depending on the plant and growing conditions.

Its glossy leaves and upright crown create a lush background for the flowers, which are especially valued for their fragrance. Champak suits a sheltered warm-climate garden with space to develop into a substantial tree.

Key Features

• Flowers: Strongly fragrant, many-petalled flowers in yellow to orange tones.
• Foliage: Glossy green, elongated evergreen leaves.
• Habit: Tall tropical or subtropical evergreen tree.

Growing Conditions

• Position: Sun to light afternoon shade, sheltered from drying winds.
• Soil: Moist, fertile, freely draining and preferably slightly acidic soil.
• Climate: Warm humid climates; protect seedlings from frost.
• Care: Mulch to retain moisture, keeping mulch away from the trunk.

Propagation from Seed

1. Sow: Sow shallowly in a clean, well-draining propagation medium.
2. Germinate: Keep warm, shaded from intense sun and evenly moist; germination may take time.
3. Pot on: Move established seedlings into deep pots and avoid letting tender roots dry out.

Growing Note

The older name Michelia champaca is a synonym; Magnolia champaca is currently accepted by Kew.

Germination advice: These instructions are a recommended guide. Germination results and timing may vary depending on seed freshness, storage, temperature and growing conditions. Alternative propagation methods may also be successful.