Order: Magnoliales
Family: Magnoliaceae
General Overview: Magnolia biondii is a deciduous tree. It is native to central and southern China, where it grows in forests and on hillsides.
Morphological Features: Magnolia biondii, a deciduous tree predominantly found in temperate mountain forests, exhibits a broadly conical to spreading growth habit. Reaching heights of up to 12 meters, the tree features pale grey, smooth bark and produces simple, ovate-shaped leaves. Leaf dimensions vary, with lengths of up to 20 cm and widths of 10 cm. The leaves are taper-pointed at the tip, wedge-shaped at the base, and possess a short petiole of up to 2 cm. Arranged alternately, the leaves exhibit pinnate venation, while stamens and carpels follow a spiral arrangement. The small, fragrant white flowers of Magnolia biondii can grow up to 8 cm, featuring six petals and three sepals arranged in sets of threes. The petals exhibit a pink base and white top, and the flowers house cone-shaped receptacles with spirally arranged carpels giving rise to styles. Stamens are cream-white, and the flowers take several years to appear. Despite its small size and extended growth period, Magnolia biondii is infrequently utilized for ornamental purposes. The tree produces aggregate fruits composed of numerous separate carpels within a single gynoecium. These fruits form cylindrical clusters that protrude on a stalk, with each cluster reaching lengths of up to 14 cm. Initially red, the individual fruitlets transition to brown upon reaching maturity.
Biological Characteristics: In traditional Chinese medicine, the bark, flowers, and fruit of Magnolia biondii have been used to treat various ailments, including digestive disorders, respiratory problems, and anxiety. Its essential oils are also valued for their therapeutic properties, such as calming the nerves and relieving stress. Magnolia biondii is also a popular ornamental tree, valued for its attractive foliage and showy flowers. It is commonly used in parks and gardens, and has been introduced to other parts of the world for its ornamental value. Overall, Magnolia biondii is a valuable tree with a range of traditional uses and ornamental value. Its cultural significance and historical use in traditional Chinese medicine also make it an important part of Chinese culture.
