It’s rare to find a plant equally cherished for its leaves and blooms, but the Magnolia grandiflora ‘Teddy Bear’ is a prime example. Known for its dense and compact form, this variety stands out among Magnolia grandifloras. It features dark green, glossy leaves with a rich bronze underside, and in early spring, it produces fragrant, cup-shaped white blooms.
Originating from North America, this evergreen tree was created in 1990 as a hybrid between the Southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) and the Fraser magnolia (Magnolia fraseri). The fuzzy brown underside of the leaves was likened to teddy bear fur and thus it acquired its name.
Growing Conditions:
The Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’ features an upright, conical growth habit. For optimal results, plant this tree in full sun to partial shade, providing enough space for it to grow 1-2 meters wide and 2-4 meters tall at maturity. When planting, ensure the soil is well-draining and slightly acidic.
Care & Maintenance:
During the initial years of growth, proper watering is vital. These trees require consistent moisture but cannot tolerate standing water. Prune in late winter just before new growth starts. Apply a slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and encourage blooms.
In a garden:
The Magnolia grandiflora ‘Teddy Bear’ offers versatile use in a garden. With its beautiful form and dense foliage, the Teddy Bear serves as an elegant feature tree and works wonderfully as an informal hedge or screening plant. Its compact size makes it perfect for smaller gardens or courtyards, and it can even thrive in large pots. An added benefit of this species is that both the branches and blooms look great in cut flower displays.