Hoyt Arboretum, Portland, Oregon, USA

Common name: Lennei Saucer Magnolia

Family: Magnoliaceae

Distribution: Garden Origin

IUCN Red list: Not evaluated

Hardiness: Zone 5b -15 to -10 F

Life form: Deciduous tree

Usage: Ornamental flowering tree

Comments: ‘Lennei’ was introduced in Europe in 1853. It is a large, broad-spreading shrub that is most noted for its large, goblet-shaped, purple flowers and large leaves. It typically grows to 10-15’ tall over the first 10 years, eventually reaching 15-25’ tall over time. Fragrant flowers to 8” across bloom in early spring before the foliage emerges. Flowers are deep purple with white inside. Sparse numbers of additional flowers may bloom sporadically later in spring on new growth, but the later flowers are usually less vigorous and less colorful than those of the primary bloom. ‘Lennei’ rarely produces fruit and blooms somewhat later than the original hybrid.
Best grown in moist, acidic, organically rich, well-drained loams in full sun to part shade.