Oyama or Siebold Magnolia

Oyama sieboldii

Oyama magnolia (Magnolia sieboldii) is a 10-15 feet tall (and equal spread) deciduous tree or large shrub from eastern Asia. It prefers to grow in partial sunlight and in moist, well drained loamy soil (USDA zones 6 -8). Why are not more gardeners are not growing this small tree/shrub magnolia. Spring bloom is in May, avoiding the threat of frost injuring the flower buds of this later blooming magnolia.

White nodding egg-shaped flower buds appear in late June, and blooms appear intermittently thru most of the summer. The 1-3 inch wide saucer shaped flowers are white, centered by crimson stamens within. Oyama begins to flower at an early age.

The 3-6 inch long medium green foliage is first to appear in April, coated with a silvery pubescence. Leaves turn pale yellow before abscising in mid-autumn. Small pink fruits appear in late summer, and split open to reveal orange-red seeds in late September. Branch bark wood is light gray.

Feed magnolias with a slow release fertilizer in early spring. They benefit from annual mulching.  Pruning shrub to desired shape and size, and to remove dead or broken branches.

Oyama magnolia is an excellent pick for a small garden. It is available from  a few on-line specialty nurseries.

Korean Sweetheart Tree

Bright Red Fruits of Sweetheart Tree

The late Dr. J. C. Raulston, N.C. State University horticulture professor emeritus, discovered Korean sweetheart tree in 1985 on the Korean Peninsula while participating in a U.S. National Arboretum collection expedition. 

Dr. Raulston brought seeds back to the N.C. State Arboretum for assessment and evaluation. The common name "sweetheart tree" was coined by Tennessee nurseryman Mr. Don Shadow.

The tree prefers a sandy or medium loamy soil and full sun to partial shade. Once established the tree tolerates brief dry periods lasting 4-5 weeks, and is at its best in soils with consistent and even moisture. Provide supplemental irrigation in regions where summers are exceptionally hot and dry.

Opposite pinnately compound leaves measure 6-10 inches long. The fruits are major asset for this small growing tree/large tree. In late summer showy clusters of heart-shaped fruits ripen from green to pink to red. In early to mid-October the fruit capsules split open to reveal a tiny, shiny, black seed.The grayish colored bark has white striations which adds some winter interest.

No serious disease and insect problems trouble this small 25-30 feet tall tree. Availability is primarily from on-line plant nurseries