Magnolia Grandiflora Goliath

Magnolia Grandiflora Goliath 
The magnolia in all its splendour is especially pronounced in the Goliath version of this beautiful Genus. Magnolia Grandiflora or the Bull Bay Magnolia Tree is an evergreen variety of Magnolia. The variety Goliath distinguishes itself from other evergreen magnolia trees by having a rounded bushy habit and also a very long flowering period. 

The Family Magnoliceae offers this Genus, Magnolia, which can grow as deciduous or evergreen trees or shrubs, with large, fragrant, showy blooms. Deciduous magnolias generally tend to flower even before the leaves unfurl. Magnolia Grandiflora Goliath sets itself apart as a rounded evergreen tree or large shrub, with glossy, leathery leaves of a dark green hue and about 25 centimetres in length. The flowers can be described as large, fragrant, goblet-shaped and pure white; which open from upright, pubescent and woolly buds at the end of the shoots. The huge flowers of the Magnolia Goliath will come out between mid and late summer and last well on into autumn.  

Magnolia Grandiflora Goliath is so named after Pierre Magnol (1638-1715) who was a French Botany Professor; and Grandiflora, meaning large flower. Magnolia Goliath is appropriate to identify its tall growth habit, reaching an ultimate height of 15 metres and an ultimate spread between 4-8 metres; though if managed, it can spread to as far as 15 metres. It takes Magnolia Goliath between 20-50 years to reach its full growth.

In terms of soil requirements, it will do best in any moist, well-drained soil condition across most soil textures. It will tolerate slightly alkaline soils, as well as drier soils, but prefers pH levels that are slightly acidic. Considered quite hardy, the Goliath will tolerate climates to hardiness zone H5 in the UK and Ireland. In terms of placement, it prefers full sun to partial shade; and a sheltered exposure. With this in mind, its preferred aspects would be listed from most favourable to least as South to North to West to East.

The Magnolia Grandiflora Goliath tree is a popular choice in gardens, but due to its spreading habit, it is likely better suited to larger sites. With training, it can make a wonderful wall climber or grown as a tree or large shrub. For smaller gardens, take a look at Magnolia Grandiflora Little Gem, offered as a three quarter standard tree. You may also be interested in our Magnolia Grandiflora Pleached trees.