Magnolia hybrid 'Stellar Ruby'

A very unusual and hard-to-find Magnolia hybrid that boasts handsome evergreen foliage, a spring-to-autumn blooming season and eye-catching flowers with a strong fruity fragrance!

A hardy hybrid of the Banana Shrub or Magnolia figo, Magnolia ‘Stellar Ruby’ is very different from the deciduous, spring-flowering shrubs we normally associate with Magnolia. This evergreen magnolia features a very upright, narrow growth habit and is densely clothed in glossy, deep green, pointed leaves. Plants are fast-growing compared to other magnolias and will flower reliably from a young age.

In late spring, ‘Stellar Ruby’ produces a heavy flush of small pink to ruby blooms with prominent stamens. The flowers bear an intense fragrance that is variously described as ripe bananas, pear drops or port wine! Sporadic flushes of blooms continue until autumn.

Magnolia ‘Stellar Ruby’ makes a unique specimen for a shrub or mixed border. With its narrow growth habit and dense, evergreen foliage, it is also a useful screening plant. Drought tolerant once established, Magnolia ‘Stellar Ruby’ is pest and disease-resistant and ignored by deer. Tolerant to salt spray, it makes a good choice for coastal gardens. It is equally happy in a large container on the patio, where you can enjoy its banana-scented blooms at close range. Height: 3-4.5m (10-15ft). Spread: 1.8-2.5m (6-8ft).

Growing Information

Plant in a sunny or semi shaded position that recieves a minimum of 4-6 hours of sunshine per day and is sheltered from cold winds and hard spring frosts. Suitable for acid soils only that are rich, moist and well-drained. Incorporate plenty of well rotted manure or garden compost to improve the soil prior to planting, mixing it thoroughly and deeply. Magnolia plants establish quicker when their roots are shaded. Following planting, apply a mulch of rotted bark chips, manure or garden compost, taking care not to mound it around the stem of the plant. When growing in a patio container use a blend of ericaceous compost mixed with John Innes No. 3.