Magnolias are true aristocrats of the tree and shrub world. Most are deciduous and flower in Spring before their leaves emerge. An evergreen form, M. grandiflora, will flower intermittently throughout summer and into autumn. Some smaller growing types, such as M. Stellata, will happily grow for many years in a container. They respond well to rich living and generally these requirements are easily met; a good, moist, humus-rich but well-drained soil thats not too thin or too chalky. Mulch annually with composted bark and for the early flowering species, provide some protection from spring frosts. Pruning is minimal and only required when the plant is young in order to give it shape or to thin congested branches on old specimens.