Star quality guaranteed

Whether you go for the simple stars of Magnolia stellata or the magnificent goblets of Magnolia soulangeana, planting one of these wonderful trees should be compulsory for every gardener.

Smaller varieties can even be grown in containers, so magnolias can deliver their magic even if outdoor space is in short supply.

Magnolia stellata is the perfect choice for limited space, flowering profusely in spring with white or delicate pink flowers, depending on the variety.

Magnolia 'Susan', which produces glorious purple-red flowers with the bonus of fragrance, is another great option if space is limited.

Magnolia x loebneri is also a wonderful shrub or small tree for the garden, producing masses of star-shaped flowers, 8-13cm across.

And look out especially for 'Leonard Messel', which produces pale, lilac pink flowers, or 'Merrill' with white flowers.

For large goblet-shaped flowers that come in mid and late spring, look to Magnolia soulangeana. 'Rustica Rubra' is a beauty, its purplish red flowers being reminiscent of a good glass of country red.

Alternatively, go for 'Lennei Alba' with its pure white blooms.

Magnolia campbellii would be great if space allows (it is a big tree) because it produces those intriguing 'cup-and-saucer' shaped flowers. 'Darjeeling' or 'Charles Raffill' are superb.

Magnolias really can be the showpieces of a garden. Put the big ones in prominent positions or with other trees in woodland garden situations.

Most prefer soil tending towards acidic, although some, including Magnolia stellata and Magnolia x loebneri, will tolerate alkaline soils but don't expect them to flourish to their full potential.

Magnolias are relatively light on maintenance, needing nothing more than a trim in late winter to remove any untidy shoots that spoil the framework.