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Michelia alba (White Champaca)
White Champaca Michelia alba
Climate Zone 3
Zone 4
Zone 5
Zone 6
Zone 7
Flowering Period Spring
Summer
Height 8 m
Design Use Lush Tropical Look
Foliage Colour Mid Green Leaves
Light-Mid Green Leaves
Origin Exotic
Drought Tolerance Keep Watered During Hot Periods
Foliage Cover Evergreen
Sun Requirements Full Sun
Flower Colour White
Frost Tolerance Frost Sensitive
Width 3m

The Dapple Designs Expert Says:

Michelia alba, or White Champaca, is a medium-sized evergreen tree that is native to China. It has an upright habit with lime green leaves and perfumed white flowers. It is best used in Asian or tropical-themed gardens.

Give our landscape designer a call today on 1300 DAPPLE (1300 327 753) for the best garden advice



Michelia alba (White Champaca) Care Guide

Michelia alba, commonly known as White Champaca or White Sandalwood, is a highly fragrant evergreen tree prized for its aromatic white flowers. Native to Southeast Asia, this stunning tree is often planted for its ornamental value and used in perfume-making due to its intoxicating scent. With the proper care, White Champaca can thrive in gardens or large containers, providing year-round beauty and fragrance.

How to Grow Michelia alba

White Champaca grows best in warm, tropical, or subtropical climates. It prefers rich, well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH. The tree thrives in full sun to partial shade and requires protection from strong winds. Regular watering and occasional feeding will support healthy growth and abundant flowering.

FAQs About Growing Michelia alba (White Champaca)

  1. How often should I water my White Champaca?
    Michelia alba prefers consistent moisture but does not tolerate waterlogged soil. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on climate conditions. During hot or dry spells, increase watering to keep the soil evenly moist.
  2. What type of soil is best for White Champaca?
    This tree thrives in rich, well-draining soil with plenty of organic matter. If planting in pots, use a high-quality potting mix with added compost or peat moss to retain moisture while ensuring good drainage.
  3. How can I encourage more flowers on my White Champaca?
    To promote more blooms, ensure the tree receives at least 4-6 hours of sunlight daily. Feed with a balanced fertilizer in spring and summer, and prune lightly after flowering to encourage new growth and better blooming.
  4. Does Michelia alba require pruning?
    While not essential, pruning helps shape the tree and remove dead or weak branches. Light pruning after flowering will maintain a compact, attractive shape while encouraging new buds.
  5. Can White Champaca tolerate cold weather?
    Michelia alba is sensitive to frost and cold temperatures. If grown in cooler regions, plant it in a warm, sheltered location or grow it in a container that can be moved indoors during winter.

How to Maintain Michelia alba

For healthy growth, plant White Champaca in well-drained, nutrient-rich soil and water it regularly to maintain consistent moisture. Apply a slow-release fertilizer during the growing season to support flowering and lush foliage. Protect young trees from strong winds and provide frost protection in colder climates.

Why Choose Dapple Landscape Design for Your Michelia alba?

Need expert advice on planting and maintaining Michelia alba? Dapple Landscape Design offers professional guidance and custom landscape plans to integrate White Champaca beautifully into your garden.

Contact us today for tailored landscape solutions, expert planting advice, and professional garden design that brings out the best in your White Champaca and other stunning plants.