Michelia Alba

Michelia alba, commonly known as White Champaca or White Sandalwood, is an exquisite flowering tree that adds elegance and fragrance to any landscape. With its glossy green leaves, large white flowers, and compact growth habit, this tree is a stunning choice for both ornamental use and as a focal point in gardens. Michelia alba is highly valued for its intoxicating fragrance and its ability to attract pollinators, making it a sought-after tree among garden enthusiasts.

Mature Height (meters): 6-12m
Mature Width (meters): 3-6m
Spacing: 4-8m
Foliage: Glossy, dark green
Flowering period: Spring to summer
Form/Habit: Upright, pyramidal
Uses: Feature tree, fragrant garden
Evergreen/Deciduous: Evergreen
Tolerates: Full sun to part shade
Drought Hardy: Moderate
Maintenance: Low
Water requirement: Moderate

Michelia alba has glossy, dark green foliage that creates a lush backdrop for its magnificent blooms. From spring to summer, the tree adorns itself with large, highly fragrant white flowers, releasing a captivating scent that permeates the air. The beauty of its blooms, coupled with their fragrance, make Michelia alba a captivating choice for gardens and landscapes. Its upright, pyramidal form adds vertical interest and structure to any outdoor space.

As an evergreen tree, Michelia alba retains its glossy foliage throughout the year, providing a beautiful backdrop even in winter. It thrives in full sun to part shade conditions, adapting well to a range of soil types. While it can withstand moderate drought once established, regular watering during dry periods is recommended to promote healthy growth and optimal flowering.

Maintenance for Michelia alba is relatively low. Pruning can be done to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Applying a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring will help support its overall health and vigor. The tree is generally resistant to common pests and diseases, but regular monitoring is still advised.

Whether you desire a stunning feature tree or wish to create a fragrant garden, Michelia alba is an exceptional choice. Its glossy foliage, intoxicating flowers, and low-maintenance qualities make it a prized addition to any garden or landscape project.

How to Plant Michelia alba

1. Choose a location: Select a spot in your garden that receives full sun to part shade. Ensure the soil is well-draining and enriched with organic matter.
2. Dig the hole: Dig a hole that is slightly wider and slightly shallower than the root ball of the tree.
3. Prepare the soil: Mix some compost or well-rotted manure into the soil to improve its fertility and drainage.
4. Place the tree: Carefully remove the tree from its container and gently loosen the roots. Place it in the center of the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil.
5. Backfill the hole: Backfill the hole with the soil mixture, gently firming it around the roots to eliminate air pockets. Avoid compacting the soil too much.
6. Water thoroughly: Give the tree a deep watering immediately after planting to settle the soil and ensure good root-to-soil contact.
7. Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, leaving a gap around the trunk to prevent moisture buildup.

How to Maintain Michelia alba

• Watering: While Michelia alba is moderately drought-tolerant once established, regular watering is recommended, especially during dry periods. Water deeply and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
• Pruning: Prune Michelia alba as needed to maintain its desired shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Light pruning can be done throughout the year, but major pruning should be done after the flowering period.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will provide the necessary nutrients for healthy growth and abundant flowering.
• Pests and diseases: Michelia alba is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, regular monitoring is advised to address any potential issues promptly.
• Mulching: Renew the mulch layer annually to help conserve soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and improve soil fertility.
• Regular inspections: Regularly inspect the tree for any signs of stress, disease, or pest infestations. Promptly address any issues to maintain the health and vitality of your Michelia alba tree.

Caring for Your Michelia alba Tree

• Provide regular water during the establishment phase and during dry periods.
• Prune as needed to maintain shape and remove dead or damaged branches, with major pruning done after the flowering period.
• Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in spring according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Monitor for any signs of pests or diseases and take appropriate action if necessary.
• Renew the mulch layer annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
• Regularly inspect the tree for any signs of stress or issues and address them promptly to ensure the health and vitality of your Michelia alba tree.