Difference between Magnolia and Frangipani Flowers
In courtyard plant arrangement, magnolia and frangipani are often confused due to their similar white flowers. Although both belong to ornamental trees, there are significant differences in botanical classification and growth habits. A systematic comparison of core elements such as plant structure, leaf characteristics, and flower organ construction can help gardening enthusiasts accurately identify and reasonably apply these two high-quality landscape tree species.
Comparison of Morphological Characteristics Differences
Plant Size and Branching Characteristics
Magnolia, as a representative species of the Magnoliaceae family, can reach 25 meters in height and over 1 meter in diameter at breast height. Its dark gray bark has longitudinal cracks, branches are gray-brown and spread at a wide angle, forming an umbrella-shaped canopy with high wood density.
Frangipani belongs to the Apocynaceae family of shrubs, with a typical height of 5-8 meters and a diameter of 15-20 centimeters. The succulent stems are rich in milky white sap, and the new branches are a bright green, with a typical water storage structure of tropical plants.
Leaf Shape and Texture
Magnolia has papery leaves 10-15 cm long, with an elliptical base that tapers, and clear net-like veins, turning golden yellow and falling in autumn.
Difference between Magnolia and Frangipani Flowers
Frangipani has thick leathery leaves up to 20-40 cm long, closely arranged in an inverted lanceolate shape, with a distinct waxy layer on the leaf surface, having drought-resistant and water-retaining characteristics.
Inflorescence Structure and Blooming Period
Magnolia blooms in early spring before leaves appear, with single terminal flowers up to 16 cm in diameter, 9 tepals bases gradually dyed with pink blush, and having a strong fragrance.
Frangipani has cymose inflorescences at the branch tips, with 5-lobed funnel-shaped corollas that are white on the outside and yellow on the inside, continuously blooming in summer with a flower diameter of about 5 cm.
Comparison of Growth Habits
Difference in Temperature Adaptability
Magnolia has strong cold resistance, can withstand -20°C low temperatures, and is suitable for temperate climates; frangipani requires temperatures above 10°C to overwinter and is only suitable for tropical and subtropical regions.
Difference in Soil Requirements
Magnolia prefers slightly acidic loose soil, with a well-developed root system that requires a deep soil layer; frangipani is tolerant to barren conditions and can still grow well in sandy soil.
Landscape Application Scenarios
Magnolia is often used as the main landscape tree in courtyards, planted alone to show its upright posture; frangipani is suitable for combined landscaping, planted in clusters to create a tropical ambiance.
Understanding the differences between the two in terms of wood structure, flowering characteristics, and resilience can help with scientific planning of planting schemes. Magnolia is suitable for creating traditional garden settings, while frangipani is a core element of tropical landscapes. Reasonable selection based on regional climatic characteristics can bring out the best ornamental effects.