Magnolis in Malvern, Worcestershire.

 Magnolia, named after the French botanist Pierre Magnol, originated in the Americas and Asia. They come in yellow, purple, white and pink varieties, but most of the ones you see around here are either white or pale pink.


Magnolia, the tree
Much maligned by paint charts
And bland interior design.
Fine, waxy petals,
Of oriental providence
Light and exotic.

They are in every street and park a beacon of exquisite beauty at this time of year.