Magnolia figo aka Port Wine Magnolia

Taxonomy

Magnolia figo, also known as banana shrub, port wine magnolia, or Michelia figo, is an evergreen tree in the Magnolia genus that is native to China. It typically grows to a height of 3-4 meters and has leathery, dark glossy-green leaves that can reach up to 10cm in length. The plant produces fragrant flowers that are cream-white, sometimes yellow, purple rounded, or light-purple and strongly scented with isoamyl alcohol. The flower buds and new leaves are covered with hairs, giving it a velvety texture. Initially described as Liriodendron figo by Portuguese missionary and naturalist João de Loureiro, it was later reclassified as Michelia figo by German botanist Curt Polycarp Joachim Sprengel, before being placed within the Magnolia genus in 2006. Magnolia figo is popularly cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a houseplant. It grows very slowly and is susceptible to black soot, but it can grow well in both acidic and alkaline soil. In Shanghai, China, it is used as a tall evergreen hedge. Banana shrub, as it is commonly called, is a dense, rounded, multi-stemmed, broadleaf evergreen shrub that can grow up to 6-10' tall and as wide. It is super rare as a houseplant but is easy to grow and needs regular watering. It prefers well-draining soil and long-lasting direct light, ideally within 1 foot of a window. Repotting every time it doubles in size should provide enough nutrients. Its name comes from the intense banana-like fragrance of its creamy pale yellow, cup-shaped flowers with six petals.

Common names

Port Wine Magnolia, Chenille Copperleaf, Banana Shrub

How to care for Port Wine Magnolia

Difficulty

With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Port Wine Magnolia, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.

Water

Port Wine Magnolia should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.

Soil

Port Wine Magnolia loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.

Lighting

Port Wine Magnolia requires abundant, bright, and direct light to thrive. The best placement for this plant is within one foot of a window to ensure it receives enough light. If you live in an area with more extreme weather, such as hot summers or cold winters, you may need to adjust the placement of the plant accordingly. During hot summer months, it is important to place the plant away from full sun, as this can cause the leaves to yellow or burn. During cold winter months, it is best to move the plant closer to the window to take advantage of the extra light that can help it survive. By keeping an eye on the current weather in your area, you can make sure your Chenille Copperleaf is always in the right place to thrive.

Dormancy

During the wintertime, it is common for Port Wine Magnolia plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.

Toxicity

No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

Fertilizer

The Port Wine Magnolia is known for its slow growth and doesn't require fertilizing beyond its potting soil. Replacing the soil in its pot once a year should offer it sufficient nutrition. It's essential to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not from fertilizers.


More info:
Wikipedia