In a Nutshell:
* Magnolia biondii (Biond’s Magnolia) is a deciduous tree that flowers in late winter to early spring before leaf growth. Its early flowering nature gives it the name of the Hope for Spring Flower.
* Magnolia biondii is widely distributed in China. It is commonly found in Gansu, Henan, Hubei, Shaanxi, Sichuan provinces. It is usually found in forests in the mountains. The plant was discovered and introduced to the Western hemisphere more than 70 years ago.
* Flowers of Magnolia biondii are small and white and have strong fragrance associated to them. They can grow up to 3 1 inches, or eight centimeters across.
* Magnolia biondii is a deciduous tree that grows mainly in temperate forests in the mountains.It has a broadly conical to spreading habit.
* Dried flower buds and petals of Magnolia biondii are considered food in some parts of China. Fresh flower buds can be prepared by mixing with vinegar and ginger. Petals can be fried with flour batter coating.
* The dried flower buds of Magnolia biondii are used medicinally in China and Japan. They are used to relieve coughing and nasal obstruction. Pharmacologically, five lignans including pinoresinol dimethyl ether, magnolin, epi-magnolin A, fargesin, and demethoxyaschantin have been attributed to the medicinal effect of Magnolia biondii.
* Magnolia biondii is closely related to the Japanese Willow-Leaf Magnolia, Magnolia salicifolia, which has aromatic foliage and shoots. Resemblance is also observed in Magnolia dendata. Magnolia biondii is generally distinguished by its smaller size, narrower leaves, and smaller flowers. more...