Michelia maudiae Magnoliaceae Jana Olson, Berkeley This splendid small tree is one of numerous new introductions to west coast horticulture. Hardy possibly to zone 7, it does best in warmer but moister areas around the bay. It is an elegant evergreen tree with large shiny leaves with a blue-toned reverse. The flowers are 4 inches across and heavily scented. It grows very well in Portland and Seattle. It is native to China and flowers in early spring. The specimen shown was grown in Berkeley. . Photo by Steve Morse