Huangshan magnolia

Description

Magnolia cylindrica, commonly known as Huangshan Magnolia, is a species of Magnolia native to China. It is a deciduous tree that grows up to 20 meters tall, with a trunk diameter of up to 50 centimeters. It belongs to the family Magnoliaceae, which is known for its beautiful and fragrant flowers. Distribution and Habitat: Magnolia cylindrica is native to the eastern part of China, specifically in the Anhui, Henan, Hubei, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang provinces. It is commonly found growing in the mountains and hillsides, usually at elevations of 300 to 1,500 meters above sea level. Description: The Huangshan Magnolia is a deciduous tree that typically grows up to 20 meters tall. It has a straight, cylindrical trunk with a diameter of up to 50 centimeters, and a broadly conical crown. The bark is grayish-brown, smooth, and becomes fissured with age. The branches are ascending, forming a dense crown. The leaves of Magnolia cylindrica are elliptical to oblong, measuring 10-20 cm long and 4-8 cm wide. They are dark green and glossy on the upper surface, and paler and slightly pubescent on the underside. The petioles are stout, measuring up to 1 cm long. The flowers of Magnolia cylindrica are produced in early spring, before the leaves emerge. They are usually 5-10 cm in diameter, and have a pinkish-purple color. The flowers are cup-shaped, with numerous petals and sepals. The stamens are numerous, and the carpels are arranged in a cone-like structure. The flowers are highly fragrant and attract pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The fruit of Magnolia cylindrica is a cylindrical aggregate of follicles, measuring up to 10 cm long and 2.5 cm in diameter. Each follicle contains numerous small, red-brown seeds, each with a fleshy orange-red aril. Cultivation and Uses: Magnolia cylindrica is a popular ornamental tree, valued for its showy flowers and attractive foliage. It is often planted in parks, gardens, and along roadsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soils and a sunny to partially shaded position. The wood of Magnolia cylindrica is hard and heavy, and is sometimes used in furniture making and for construction. The bark and flowers are also used in traditional Chinese medicine for their medicinal properties. Conservation: Magnolia cylindrica is not currently listed as endangered, but like many plant species, it is threatened by habitat loss due to deforestation, urbanization, and agriculture. In addition, over-collection of its flowers and bark for medicinal purposes may also pose a threat to its long-term survival. In conclusion, Magnolia cylindrica is a beautiful and valuable tree species that is native to China. It is widely cultivated for its ornamental value and is used in traditional Chinese medicine. Its conservation status should be closely monitored to ensure its survival for future generations to enjoy.