Michelia doltsopa

Sweet Michelia

Character: Evergreen; upright, oval form; moderate canopy.
Size: Small (Height: 15-25'; Spread: 15').
Growth: Slow.
Foliage: Dark green, leathery, elliptical leaves, 3-8" long.
Flower: White, fragrant, 12-petalled flowers, 5-7" across, bloom January-March.
Fruit: Brown, cone-like seed conglomerates, 3-4" long, form in summer and drop in winter.
Bark: Slightly mottled, light gray-brown bark.
Monthly Watering Needs: 15-20 gallons per week for the first 2 years; 15-20 gallons twice a month for the 3rd year; as needed after 3 years (varies by soil, sun, and wind conditions).
Tree Care: Low. Early pruning needed to train a good shape; pruning needed less frequently with age. Some sidewalk clean-up during flower drop.
Tolerances: Any soil. Sun or part shade.
Special Considerations: Grows slowly, folded leaves can make it look drought stressed. Tall in its native habitat - but largest one in town has achieved only 25' in 25 years.
Notable Traits: Native to the Himalayas. Provides flower display in winter months, very fragrant. Good tree for 2x3' basins and beneath overhead wires. Closely related to Magnolia.