This small tree has an upright pyramidal habit when young becoming broad with age and has grey-brown bark. The oblong leaves are dark green and has cup-shaped scented flowers are white with a yellow centre, appearing from late winter to spring.

Hardiness zones 9 to 11

Michelia doltsopais naturally found in northern India and western China growing in woodlands in humus rich soils that are tending acidic. It prefers a protected sunny position with mid-day shade and is drought tender but frost tolerant.

This attractive medium size tree is grown in woodland gardens or as a specimen and against buildings. It is also used in fragrant gardens on the coast and in the lower mountains. It establishes in 3 to 5 years and may be kept bushy with regular pruning. ID 1348

Michelia(mee-CHEL-ee-a / mee-SHEL-ee-a) doltsopa(dolt-SOAP-a)

'Michelia': after Italian botanist Pietro Antonio Micheli

Magnoliaceae(mag-NOL-ee-AY-see-ee)