What is yulan magnolia?

Yulan magnolia, also known as Magnolia denudata, is a deciduous tree native to China. It is a popular ornamental tree in gardens and parks for its beautiful, fragrant flowers that bloom in late winter to early spring before the leaves emerge. The flowers are large, cup-shaped, and white, with a sweet scent that fills the surrounding air. The leaves are dark green and elongated, turning yellow in autumn before falling off. The bark is brown-gray and smooth when young, becoming rough and fissured with age. Yulan magnolia grows up to 10 to 15 meters in height and is relatively easy to cultivate in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. Its flower buds are vulnerable to frost, so it is not recommended to plant it in areas with harsh winters. The tree has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for its bark and leaves, which contain various active compounds with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.