The Magnolia virginiana ‘Henry Hicks’, a Sweetbay Magnolia cultivar, is a favored choice for garden enthusiasts. Its appeal stems from distinctive attributes that make it popular in various landscape designs.
Understanding ‘Henry Hicks’ Characteristics
‘Henry Hicks’ magnolias typically grow 10 to 20 feet tall and wide, though some specimens may reach up to 30 or 40 feet in ideal conditions. They develop a graceful, upright, and often pyramidal or columnar form, which can be trained into a single-trunked tree or allowed to grow as a multi-stemmed large shrub.
Its foliage is largely evergreen, particularly in warmer climates and well into USDA Hardiness Zone 5. The oblong leaves are a glossy, rich green on the upper surface, contrasting beautifully with their pale, silvery undersides that shimmer in the breeze. This evergreen characteristic provides year-round visual interest, a notable advantage over the species’ often deciduous nature in colder regions.
Creamy-white, cup-shaped flowers emit a pleasant lemon or citrus fragrance. These blooms typically appear from late spring through summer, often from June through September, though younger plants may take a few years to flower abundantly. After flowering, small red fruits emerge, containing bright red seeds that can attract local wildlife. The tree’s bark is smooth and gray.
Planting and Cultivation
Site Selection and Soil
‘Henry Hicks’ thrives in locations that receive full sun to partial shade. This magnolia prefers moist, fertile soils that are rich in organic matter and possess good drainage. An acidic soil pH, ideally between 4.0 and 6.5, is important for its health, similar to its native swampy habitats.
While good drainage is beneficial, this cultivar is notably tolerant of wet or even boggy conditions, distinguishing it from many other magnolia varieties. If your soil is too alkaline, amending it with peat moss or pine needles can help lower the pH, or an iron supplement can address yellowing leaves.
Watering
Consistently moist soil is important for ‘Henry Hicks’, especially during its establishment period. For newly planted trees, regular watering is important during the first two years to help roots establish. Aim to water deeply, providing about one inch of moisture per week, allowing the water to penetrate thoroughly.
During dry spells, especially in hot weather, you may need to water several times a week to maintain adequate soil moisture. While it tolerates wet conditions, avoid overwatering to prevent root problems. Monitoring the soil moisture regularly helps ensure the plant receives the right amount of hydration.
Fertilizing
Annual feeding can benefit ‘Henry Hicks’ to support its growth and vigor. You can use water-soluble, slow-release granules, or organic options like fish emulsion. For acid-loving plants, selecting a fertilizer formulated for them can help maintain the preferred soil pH.
Always follow the product label instructions for application rates and frequency to avoid over-fertilization. If the leaves show signs of yellowing, which can indicate an alkaline soil, applying an acidifying fertilizer can help correct the issue.
Pruning
‘Henry Hicks’ generally requires minimal pruning to maintain its form. Pruning primarily involves shaping the tree and removing any dead, damaged, or diseased branches. If the plant is grafted, remove any shoots that emerge from the rootstock at the base of the tree.
Water sprouts (vertical growths on branches) should also be removed. The best time for pruning is typically in late winter, allowing the plant to recover before the active growing season. This selective pruning helps to maintain the tree’s desired structure and promotes healthy growth.
Integrating ‘Henry Hicks’ into Your Landscape
The ‘Henry Hicks’ magnolia offers versatile applications due to its attractive form and year-round appeal. It serves as a specimen tree, creating a focal point in a lawn or garden. Its moderate size and upright habit also make it suitable for use as a screening plant, providing privacy or defining garden spaces.
This cultivar’s evergreen foliage ensures visual interest throughout the year. The creamy-white, lemon-scented flowers add a sensory dimension to the garden, particularly during their summer bloom period. Its adaptability to moist soils makes it a good choice for areas near water features or in rain gardens. Its narrow crown allows it to be planted in confined spaces, such as near patios or along narrow urban corridors.