Magnolia grandiflora ‘Kay Parris’ – Kay Parris Magnolia

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Kay Parris’, commonly known as Kay Parris Magnolia, is a compact Southern Magnolia valued for glossy green foliage, copper-brown undersides, and fragrant creamy white flowers. Flowering through the warmer months, it provides extended seasonal interest, while its dense upright form gives year-round structure. With a tidier habit than many traditional evergreen magnolias, Kay Parris suits feature planting, screening, and smaller landscapes that need an evergreen presence.

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Kay Parris’ growing conditions in NZ

Kay Parris Magnolia performs well in full sun to partial shade with well-drained soil and adapts to a wide range of New Zealand conditions, including wind in sheltered spots and seasonal dry periods once established. Its compact habit makes it well-suited to residential gardens, avenue planting, screening, and formal landscapes. Magnolia grandiflora ‘Kay Parris’ also works well as a feature tree wherever evergreen structure and repeated flowering are valued.

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Kay Parris’ size, spacing, and growth rate

Kay Parris Magnolia typically reaches around 4 to 6m tall and 2.5 to 4m wide within 10 years, forming a dense upright canopy with a moderate growth rate. Allow spacing of 2.5–4m where planting as a screen, or more, where the natural form is to be developed. Plant with room away from structures so Magnolia grandiflora ‘Kay Parris’ can maintain its branching habit and flowering performance.