Vulcan Magnolia Tree

Magnolia ‘Vulcan’ is an early-flowering, deciduous small tree bred at Tikorangi by Felix Jury. Its large, cup-shaped blooms are deep port-wine red when conditions bring out the color; in cooler climates, the flowers may appear duller purple. ## Growing Plant in full sun or partial shade, in moist, well-drained soil, and shelter the tree from cold winds. Late frosts can damage flower buds and open blooms. The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/46896/magnolia-vulcan/details) describes mid- to late-spring flowers and a mature height and spread of 4–8 m. The [Tikorangi Jury Magnolias page](https://jury.co.nz/jury-plants/jury-magnolias/) gives 4 m in New Zealand conditions and notes that young trees can take a couple of years to develop their characteristic color, size, and form. [Trees and Shrubs Online](https://www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/magnolia/magnolia-cultivars-u-v/) records USDA Zones 7–9 and explains that flower color varies with climate. ## Garden use Give this small tree room to flower and develop its canopy. The dramatic spring blooms suit a courtyard or lawn as a seasonal ornamental. ## Maintenance Prune only when needed, in midsummer while the tree is in full leaf. Check occasionally for scale insects and capsid bugs.