Campbell's magnolia Magnolia campbellii

Campbell's magnolia is often considered to be the finest of all the magnolias. This native of the Himalayas has huge, spectacular, colourful flowers that bloom in early spring before its leaves even appear.

Magnolias are generally renowned for their magnificent flowers and Campbell's magnolia does not disappoint in this regard. In fact, it is widely considered to be one of the finest species and one look at its huge and colourful flowers reveal why.

Magnolia campbellii flowers in early spring between February and April, even before the leaves of the tree emerge. Each flower can be as large as 20cm across and comprises anything from 12 to 16 tepals, which vary in colour from white through pink to crimson on the outside with paler shades inside.

A native of the Himalayas, Campbell's magnolia can be found in Nepal, east to China and south to Myanmar. It most often grows at an altitude of 2,500-3,000m. In its natural environment it can grow to 30m (100ft) but as is often the case it rarely exceeds 18m when grown in cultivation. Named for Scottish botanist Dr Archibald Campbell, Magnolia campbellii was introduced to Britain in 1868.

Despite its mountainous origins, this magnolia is used to some shelter and relies on relatively a mild spring. Late frosts can adversely affect the chances of flowering and temperate conditions, including deep, moist soil are important for young trees to become established. Perhaps because conditions for growth are not ideal in Britain, Campbell's magnolia is not a common sight and can mainly be found in large gardens on the south and west of the country.