What is michelia alba?

Michelia alba, also known as the white champaca or white sandalwood, is a fragrant flowering tree native to Southeast Asia. It belongs to the magnolia family (Magnoliaceae) and is highly prized for its intoxicatingly sweet and heady scent.

The flowers of Michelia alba are creamy white and resemble magnolias, with a delightful fragrance that is often likened to jasmine or orange blossom. They bloom in clusters from late spring to early summer, attracting bees and butterflies with their nectar.

In addition to its ornamental value, Michelia alba also has cultural and medicinal significance. In traditional Chinese medicine, the bark and flowers of the tree have been used to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and fevers.

Michelia alba is a relatively slow-growing tree that thrives in warm, tropical climates with well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. It is often grown as an ornamental plant in gardens and parks for its stunning floral display and heavenly fragrance.