Our Guardian Magnolia tree
Nestled in front of our cottage, our Magnolia soulangeana stands tall and statuesque, a true pride of our woodland garden. This beautiful tree, with its lush blooms and sprawling branches, is more than just an ornamental tree—it’s a cherished part of our family’s outdoor life. We hang our hammock from its sturdy branches, and the flagpole nearby adds to the idyllic setting.
In English, trees that don't bear fruit or serve a utilitarian purpose are often called "ornamental trees." In the Nordic languages, they're known as "pryd" trees, a term that shares its roots with "pride"—something excellent and beautiful. This perfectly describes our magnolia. It’s not just a tree; it’s the pride of our garden, gracing us with its stunning blossoms in the spring and providing a shady retreat in the summer.
Our magnolia ties deeply into the cultural and natural heritage of the Nordic people. The concept of a "May Tree" or Maypole, around which spring rites are celebrated, resonates with our care for our magnolia. In Scandinavian folklore, a guardian tree brings good luck and serves as a mystical gateway to the world of trolls and nisser, reminiscent of Yggdrasil, the world tree in Norse mythology.
To us, our magnolia is such a guardian. Its blooming heralds the arrival of spring, filling our garden with vibrant color and life. While it may not bear fruit, it is more productive than one might expect. The petals of its blooms carry a sweet, citrusy aroma, which we use in various culinary delights. We dry the petals and grind them into cardemommy spice for our cookies, pickle the leaves, and sugar the stamen for a unique treat.
Bringing its branches indoors is another joy. Placed in a vase, they bloom on our table, filling our home with their sweet, citrusy, and gingery aroma. The magnolia's presence extends beyond the garden, into the very heart of our home, marking the passage of the seasons with its beauty and fragrance.
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