Magnolia Church Mouse

Michelia Church Mouse is a dwarf variety and a true highlight of the late Winter to early Spring garden. Despite its compact size, it produces an abundance of deliciously fragrant white flowers that smother the shrub, delivering both visual and sensory impact when much of the garden is still dormant. The foxy-toned buds add further interest as they open into creamy, star-like flowers.

This deciduous selection forms a dense, rounded shrub with rich green foliage through most of the year, dropping its leaves in Winter. Bred in New Zealand by Glyn Church, it’s ideal for small gardens, patio settings, or as a striking container feature. Suitable for formal, courtyard, or scented garden designs. Plant in full sun to part shade in fertile, free-draining soil. Tolerates medium frosts. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and feed in late Winter and late Spring for best performance.

Mature Size (H x W): 1 m x 70 cm

Trimming: Prune lightly after flowering to maintain its compact, rounded shape. Remove any crossing or damaged branches to encourage tidy, balanced growth.

Deadheading: Not required, as spent flowers drop cleanly without impacting the plant’s performance or appearance.

Fertilising: Feed in late winter and again in late spring with a balanced, slow-release fertiliser to support flowering and healthy foliage.

Watering: Water regularly during establishment and in extended dry periods. Ensure the soil remains free-draining, especially in container settings.

Pest Control: Generally pest-free, but monitor for scale or aphids on young shoots. Use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if infestations occur.

Disease Management: Michelia are typically disease-resistant, but ensure good airflow around the plant to prevent fungal issues. Avoid overhead watering to reduce the risk of leaf spot in humid conditions.