Magnolia obovata Thunb.

A deciduous tree. It grows 20-30 m high and spreads 4 m wide. The stem is erect and stout. It branches. The leaves are large and sword shaped. They are 40 cm long and narrow at the base. The flowers are creamy white. They are 20 cm across and cup shaped. They have a sweet scent. The fruit are bright red. There are 1-2 shiny seeds in each follicle.

It is a temperate plant. It does best in well-composted acid soils. It needs a protected sunny position. It is resistant to frost but sensitive to drought. It suits hardiness zones 6-10. Arboretum Tasmania.

Young leaves and flower buds are boiled and eaten as a vegetable. Older leaves are powdered and sprinkled on food as a flavouring.

Plants can be grown from seeds and also cuttings or air-layering.