Magnolia kobus 'Isis' MARACZI™ - Kobus magnolia, Northern Japanese magnolia

The Kobe Magnolia Isis, known by its cultivar name 'Maráczy', is a Magnolia de Kobe, a magnolia species that tolerates limestone. Isis is characterized by a columnar shape, with a semi-open crown, ideal when space is limited, and yellow-green branches, lighter than those of the typical species. It forms a large, fast-growing shrub that bears a multitude of white star-shaped flowers from late winter.

The Kobe Magnolia belongs to the magnolia family. It is native to Japan and can reach a height of 10 m with a pyramidal and branched shape. The corollas, 8 to 10 cm in diameter, solitary, white, sometimes slightly pinkish, bloom on bare wood in March. The stamens are yellow. Subsequently, the shrub develops deciduous, alternate, narrow, oval leaves, often pleated, medium green with a paler reverse, slightly aromatic, 15 to 18 cm long. Isis 'Maráczy' is a valuable selection, originating from a spontaneous seeding of Kobe Magnolia, selected by Prenor nurseries in Hungary. It reaches up to 7 m in height at maturity, with a spread of 1.5 to 2 m, with a columnar shape and a regular to elongated ovoid crown, with a continuous main branch. While young branches are yellow-green and lighter than those of M. kobus, the aged bark is identical to that of the species. Young shoots are bronze in colour, leaning more towards dark green in summer. The trees adorn themselves with flowers from a young age.

The Kobe Magnolia Isis appreciates a fresh, rich, well-drained soil, even limestone, in a sunny or semi-shaded location, sheltered from prevailing winds. In summer, it is advisable to maintain soil moisture by mulching around the base. The Kobe Magnolia Isis looks lovely on its own in a small garden, but its columnar shape also allows it to be used at the back of a border surrounded by early-flowering bulbs and various heights of perennials, ensuring a well-spread flowering display. It can also be associated with twisted dwarf pines, a Acer palmatum, and some Japanese Azaleas.