Last updated on May 21st, 2023 at 07:06 pm

The magnolia flower has been around for many years. The recent discovery of some magnolia fossils proves that these flowers have been blooming on the Earth for as long as 100 to 200 million years!

These flowers are loved by all, with numerous types and species. Over time, more species are being developed, and each species is unique in its petals and fragrance. They are characterized by large leaves, which have a leathery appearance. These flowers can be of two types, the tropical type or the deciduous type. This type is dependent on the place they are growing.

The most common magnolias are the anise magnolia, bigleaf magnolia, lily magnolia, Kobus magnolia, and so on. Each of these magnolias is unique in its appearance and native to some countries. The Kobus magnolia is native to Korea and Japan and is thus also fondly known as Japanese. On the other hand, the bigleaf magnolia is native to Mexico and the USA and has long leaves.

The magnolia flower comes from the family of Magnoliaceae and has historical significance. It is known to have come to the Earth even before the bees evolved! These deciduous shrubs bloom mostly in spring, and the fruits are usually produced in autumn. 

The scientific name of this beautiful flower is Magnolia liliiflora. It is its common name as well. The flower’s name is just enough to justify its elegant and graceful shape. This tulip-shaped flower has elongated petals and a soft, subtle color. 

There are various magnolias species, each of which has a specific scientific name. The bigleaf magnolia is one such type, white with pink or purple hues. The scientific name of this species is Magnolia macrophylla. On the other hand, the Oyama magnolia has a distinct appearance with cup-shaped petals. These flowers have crimson stamens and have been named Magnolia sieboldii scientifically.

The magnolia flower’s meaning has its roots in its discovery. A renowned botanist from France first discovered this tree. This botanist was Charles Plumier, who spotted this tree on an island. This island of Martinique, locally termed ‘talauma,’ was full of magnolia flowers. Plumier had named this flower after another renowned French botanist, Pierre Magnol.

The natural habitat of magnolia is usually centered around Asia. Southeast Asia and eastern Asia are the primary centers of these beautiful flowers. The secondary center of habitat is produced by eastern parts of North America, the West Indies, parts of Central America, and so on. Some magnolia species are also spotted in South America.

What does the Magnolia flower symbolize?

Magnolia flower meaning and symbolism have a unique history attached to them according to the culture and location.

In Japan, the magnolia flower expresses love and appreciation of life. It is also believed to connect us with the cosmos. Traditionally, brides wore magnolia bouquets on their wedding day. Magnolia petals were also a lucky charm that secures love and passion between spouses.

In Chinese art, the motif of a magnolia flower signifies feminine grace, purity, sweetness, and beauty. It is also a symbol of romantic commitment and loyalty.

In the past, planting magnolia trees was very popular in Georgia. The tree was believed to bring luck and success in all financial matters.

In Victorian times, lovers secretly exchanged magnolia flowers in defiance of forbidden love. The flower became a symbol of never-ending love and determination.

In many cultures, it is common to give magnolia flowers on the occasion of a child’s birth. In this context, they symbolize the regenerative powers of Nature and the Life Force.

‘You are worthy of a beautiful magnolia’ is an old saying that has become a cliché. However, this saying confirms that one of the strongest meanings attributed to the magnolia flower is that of feminine beauty.

Magnolia flowers are those which also signify magnificence and beauty. These flowers boldly bloom in difficult climatic conditions and grow to large sizes. The exquisite and extraordinary smell further enhances the beauty they have. 

Magnolia trees can live up to a hundred years. This longevity and the fact that they have blossomed for millions of years make them a universal symbol of endurance, stability, and long life.

All in all, the magnolia flower symbolic meanings are:

  • luck
  • stability
  • perseverance
  • beauty
  • purity
  • dignity
  • innocence
  • spirituality

Meaning of the Magnolia flower colors

Yellow color

The yellow magnolia flower is related to the Sun, emanating and sharing happiness, joy, friendship, and love. Famous goddesses like Sunna or Medusa are often linked with these flowers. Since yellow is the color of gold, yellow magnolias are also linked to luck and prosperity. 

Gifting a yellow magnolia flower expresses care, friendship, and amiability. These flowers are perfect for expressing how much you care for another person. You can show affection and love for your friend by giving them these yellow flowers.

Purple color

The purple-shaded magnolia flower signifies many things. It is a symbol of royalty, dignity, and pride. This magnolia color symbolizes extravagance, spirituality, and even mystery. It is also linked to dignity, nobility, courage, and power.  

Purple magnolia flowers are extremely classy and form a unique gift. These purple flowers also represent religion; you can spot them in numerous religious rituals. People also believe you can use purple magnolias to manifest luck and health.

Pink color

The pink magnolia is a symbol of romance, love, and femininity. The pink petals of magnolia are mostly associated with Greek Aphrodite and the Roman Venus, who are love, fertility, and beauty goddesses. This flower also symbolizes youth, innocence, shyness, and sensitivity.

The gorgeous pink magnolias are a perfect show of your affection toward your loved one. You can gift these shades to any woman in your life, your sister, friend, mother, or beau. 

White color

White magnolia represents the Moon, purity, modesty, innocence, and perfection. Apart from these, the white magnolias stand for perseverance, hope, faith, care, inner peace, and even spirituality. White magnolias are ritually offered to Selene and Artemis, the lunar goddesses. 

If you want to send someone a message filled with kindness and gentle gestures, these flowers should be your perfect choice.

Red color

The red magnolia is a flower of romance and passionate love. These magnolias are rare to find, but they are an immediate eye-catcher! 

This attention-seeking flower is perfect for showing off your strong feelings of love and expressing your fiery and deepest emotions. 

Interesting facts about the Magnolia flowers

  • These flowers do not produce any nectar. Instead of nectar, magnolias produce pollen in very large quantities. These pollen help in attracting the beatles. This pollen is rich in protein and forms a good food source for these beetles. 
  • A unique fact about magnolias is that their tree bark changes color. When the plants are young, these trees have either brown or grey bark. This bark is extremely smooth in young plants. But when the tree grows, these barks become very scaly and change their color to an even darker shade.
  • Magnolia trees produce fruits that have a unique cone shape. These fruits are reddish-brown, and the seeds of these fruits resemble a human kidney. The seeds are also red. These seeds are very much a favorite food of various bird species.
  • Magnolias are known for their longevity of life. Some magnolias have survived 100 years or even more than that. 
  • The smell of magnolia flowers is unique. These flowers are known for their musty smell. A sweet tropical smell also comes from some of the magnolia species. 
  • Yulan Magnolia is the official flower of Shanghai.
  • Magnolia grandiflora is the official state flower of Mississippi (nicknamed ‘Magnolia State’) and Louisiana. The City of Houston in Texas is often called ‘Magnolia City.’
  • Siebold’s Magnolia (Magnolia sieboldii) is the official flower of North Korea. 

How to grow Magnolia flowers

Once established, the magnolia is a very low-maintenance plant, provided its natural sunlight and soil nutrient requirements are met.

  1. Plant the magnolias in rich, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
  2. Place them in a spot that receives full sun or is partly shady.
  3. Water regularly during the growing season and in hot weather.
  4. Appy controlled-release fertilizer.

How to care for Magnolia flowers

  1. Water the magnolias deeply two or three times a week.
  2. Ensure reliable moisture during hot or dry periods, especially for young plants.
  3. Apply fertilizer in autumn and spring. 
  4. Mulch around the soil annually in spring to help retain moisture in warmer months.
  5. Prune the flowers after the blooming season is over.

Best time to gift Magnolia flowers

There is no perfect time to give someone magnolias, as they are perfect for every occasion. They add all the volume to your regular bouquet and bring about a touch of elegance to it! 

Since these flowers signify purity, dignity, and hope, you can give magnolias to those who have become parents recently. You can give them these elegant flowers as a gift to help them welcome their new bundle of joy. 

Red or pink magnolia flowers are the embodiment of love and affection. You can give your partner a bouquet of magnolias on their special day. Not only your partner, but you can also gift these tulip-shaped flowers to any of your closest friends and even your parents.

Conclusion

Magnolia flower meaning and symbolism are directed towards the deepest emotions one can have. This flower comes with a very unusual fragrance which is enough to attract you to it. This incredible plant is largely used for gardening and house decorations. 

If you want to know and learn more about flowers, we at PansyMaiden can help you. Check out our fun, easy-to-read, and informative flower-related content that you will surely enjoy!