Nigra Pink - Purple Magnolia

Magnolia liliiflora ‘Nigra’, sometimes called black lily magnolia, is a compact deciduous shrub valued for its upright, tulip-shaped flowers in deep reddish purple. Flowers open before or with the foliage and may continue through spring into summer, extending the display beyond a single flush. ## Flowers and form The Royal Horticultural Society describes ‘Nigra’ as a bushy shrub with dark green leaves and erect, narrowly tulip-shaped flowers; the outer tepals are dark purple, with creamy-white coloring stained purple inside. The Magnolia Society directory describes a spreading or upright, somewhat loose habit and records flowers from April into June. It gives about 2 m tall by 1.5 m wide at ten years, while the RHS lists a mature range of 2.5–4 m tall and 1.5–2.5 m wide. The RHS lists Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Nigra’ as a synonym. ## Site Grow in full sun or partial shade in moist but well-drained, acidic to neutral soil. A sheltered position protects the early flowers from cold winds and late frost. The plant works in smaller gardens, informal borders, and sheltered courtyards; allow room for its eventual spread rather than crowding it against a wall or path. ## Maintenance Water regularly while the shrub establishes and during prolonged dry weather. Keep the root zone evenly moist but avoid waterlogging. Pruning is usually minimal; remove damaged or crossing branches after flowering, or shape lightly in midsummer to early autumn, when deciduous magnolias are best pruned.