Magnolia Royal Splendor

Magnolia Royal Splendor is a deciduous flowering magnolia tree with bi-pink blooms. It’s a hardy magnolia that flowers in April and May to avoid the frosts, so it’s an excellent choice for central and northern areas of the UK. 

Magnolias are some of the oldest flowering plants in the archaeological record. Their fossils  date back to at least 95 million years old. They were named after the explorer and botanist Pierre Magnol. The first magnolia to arrive in Britain was bought by the Bishop of London in 1687 and they’ve been popular ever since.

Magnolia Royal Splendor is a hybrid cross between Magnolia Pink Royalty and Magnolia Daybreak. It was bred by American Dennis Ledvina who is famous for his cold hardy magnolia breeds. It’s prized for its intense flower colour that includes all shades of pink ranging from deep pink on the outside to pale blush pink on the interior. It’s vivid flowers bloom from an early age, so you won’t be waiting years for the display. To help combat frost damage Magnolia Pink Splendor doesn’t flower until April or May and the flowers last for four weeks. Deep green glossy foliage follows and turns pretty yellow-orange shades in late autumn.

This is an excellent small magnolia for compact gardens and central to northern areas of the UK prone to late frosts.

Height and Spread of Magnolia Royal Splendor
It’s a compact and upright magnolia that reaches a maximum height of 7 metres and spreads across 3 metres. 

How Hardy Is Magnolia Royal Splendor
Magnolia Pink Splendor is cold hardy and able to withstand minus temperature in the UK if its roots are well drained and it receives plenty of sun.

How To Use Magnolia Royal Splendor
This is a beautiful specimen tree for ornamental borders or the lawn’s centre. If you love magnolias, pair it with early flowering varieties so it’s April-May blooms create colourful continuity.
Because Magnolia Pink Splendor is a compact magnolia it suits sheltered urban courtyards, front gardens, and large well-watered and fed containers on a sunny roof terrace.

How To Care For Magnolia Royal Splendor
For the best flower display, magnolias need fertile neutral to acidic soil in full sun. A sheltered spot is best to save the blooms from strong winds and frost pockets should be avoided. Pink Splendor will grow in partial shade, but it will have fewer flowers.
Pruning isn’t required but crossed or wayward branches can be removed in late winter or early spring to maintain a healthy framework. Apply a thick layer of well-rotted acidic (pine or bracken) mulch in early spring and water it regularly until you see new growth.
Container-grown magnolias need regular magnolia-specific fertiliser in spring and summer. Be sure to raise the container on feet for adequate drainage.