MICHELIA ALBA

Michelia alba, also known as the White Champaca or White Jade Orchid Tree.

1. Botanical Identity

• Current Accepted Name: While commonly referred to as Michelia alba, the currently accepted scientific name is Magnolia × alba. This reflects its status as a hybrid within the Magnolia genus.
• Hybrid Origin: Magnolia × alba is believed to be a hybrid of Magnolia champaca and Magnolia montana. 

2. Key Characteristics

• Evergreen Tree: Magnolia × alba is an evergreen tree, meaning it retains its leaves year-round.
• Fragrant Flowers: The most notable feature is its intensely fragrant, creamy-white flowers. The fragrance is often described as sweet, fruity, and reminiscent of jasmine.
• Glossy Foliage: It has attractive, dark green, glossy leaves that provide a beautiful backdrop for the flowers.
• Growth Habit: It can grow to a medium to large size, reaching heights of 25-30 feet (7.5-9 meters) or more.
• Bloom Time: It blooms profusely, primarily in the spring and summer, but may produce flowers intermittently throughout the year in warm climates. 

3. Growing Conditions

• Climate: Magnolia × alba thrives in warm, tropical, and subtropical climates, making it suitable for USDA hardiness zones 10-11.
• Sunlight: It prefers full sun to partial shade.
• Soil: It requires well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter.
• Watering: Regular watering is essential, especially during dry periods. 

4. Uses

• Ornamental: Widely cultivated as an ornamental tree for its beautiful flowers and fragrance.
• Perfume Industry: The flowers are highly prized for their fragrance and are used in the perfume industry, including the famous “Joy” perfume.
• Traditional Medicine: In traditional Chinese medicine, the flowers are used to move qi and relieve cough.
• Other Uses: The flowers are sometimes used in making tea or as offerings in temples. 

5. Cultivation

• Propagation: It is typically propagated by grafting or air layering.
• Maintenance: Requires minimal maintenance once established, but regular watering and occasional fertilization will help it thrive. 

In summary, Magnolia × alba is a beautiful and fragrant tree that is a popular choice for gardens in warm climates. Its intoxicating fragrance and attractive appearance make it a highly valued ornamental and a source of essential oils for the perfume industry.