I got a small 8" M. figo, Banana Shrub, earlier this year. It has three bloom buds, and the first is opening...unbelievable scent, just like ripe bananas. I've added the other Michelia species to my "wish list."

Does anyone grow Michelia? Any difficulties? Mine is in small CHC.

SB

Hi, stressbaby. I also enjoy the scent of this plant. Unfortunately all the plants that I have tried to grow indoors died when the humidity dipped to lethal levels during certain times of the year. However I have since figured out how to control the humidity and so will try again given the chance.

I've also grown a couple of other michelias with much more success. In fact they were growing so well that I had to get rid of them because of their size. If you're growing them outdoors (where there's more room) I recommend M. x alba for its fragrance, if your climate can accommodate it. I've not smelled M. champaca but I hear it's nice as well.

These plants seem to be happy in a moist but well-drained, acid soil. I suspect citrus and michelia are similar in this regard. BTW, Michelia has been reclassified as Magnolia.