This stunning new plant is a real breakthrough in magnolia breeding, retaining a compact habit with stable flower colour, unlike others of its type. Magnolia 'Genie' is a hardy, deciduous shrub, although windy sites and frost pockets are best avoided. Buds of blackish-red open to produce magnificent scented, deep maroon, tulip-shaped flowers. Flowering lasts for several weeks in spring, often followed by a second flowering in mid- summer. Plant Magnolia 'Genie' in a sunny or semi shaded position with protection from cold winds and hard spring frosts. Magnolias prefer a rich, moist, well drained, acid to neutral soil. Incorporate plenty of well-rotted manure or garden compost to improve the soil prior to planting, mixing it thoroughly and deeply. Magnolia plants establish quicker when their roots are shaded. Following planting, apply a mulch of rotted bark chips, manure or garden compost, taking care not to mound it around the stem of the plant. When growing magnolia in a patio containe