Magnolia is a tree that produces large, graceful flowers.

In spring, some species bloom before their leaves emerge, so the large flowers appear to float upon branches that are still quiet and bare.

Its appearance is magnificent, yet somehow serene.

Magnolias are known as one of the oldest lineages of flowering plants on Earth.

Fossil evidence has revealed traces of plants related to magnolias dating back approximately 100 million years.

Throughout the long history of the Earth, as environments have changed, seasons have passed, and countless plants have emerged and evolved, magnolias have continued to carry on their ancient lineage.

Magnolias have also been cherished throughout human history.

In China in particular, magnolias are said to have been cultivated in temple gardens and imperial gardens as early as the Tang dynasty.

On vessels from the Qing dynasty in the 18th century, magnolia, begonia, and peony were sometimes depicted together. This combination was associated with the auspicious phrase “Yutang Fugui,” expressing elegance, prosperity, and wealth.

Magnolias also spread to Japan, where they came to be cherished in gardens and art.

In the West, Asian magnolias began to be introduced during the 18th century.

They reached Britain around 1780 and subsequently spread throughout European gardens.

By the 19th century, efforts to cross different species had also advanced, giving rise to many of the magnolias we now see in gardens today.

In this way, magnolias have continued to carry their beauty across long spans of time and different cultures, never remaining confined to a single place.