Coming back to the here and now, the Michelia figo is a slow growing, compact evergreen shrub with fig shaped leaves which can reach 4 metres in height over a 20 year period. The density of its foliage and its good natural form make it equally suited as a lawn feature plant, background shrub in a garden bed or screen plant. They also respond favourably to pruning, making a great hedge.

Michelias differ from Magnolias in that they flower among the leaves rather than at the ends of the stems. They prefer tropical or sub-tropical conditions with temperatures not dropping below 0˚C though some species such as the beautiful M. alba can be grown as far south as Tasmania, surviving substantial frosts if planted in a protected position.

These plants prefer to be grown in well drained but moist soil. If your soil drains a little too well, work a good amount of organic matter into the soil before planting. The extra water retention this provides will prevent yellowing of leaves over a dry winter.

Michelia don’t suffer from many pest problems. They may be subject to scale attack every now and then which can easily be resolved with a spraying of a pest oil or a combination of vegetable oil and kitchen detergent.

Their heady scent comes on around lunch time as the new blooms open and is strongest in the late afternoon and evening. Planting too close to your dining area can result in a smell so overpowering that it may upset some diners.

Fragrant essential oils are extracted from the flowers and leaves of some varieties, mostly for use in perfume. If you have access to a M. alba, try hanging the dried flowers with Lavender flowers in your car or loo as an air freshener.

If you can’t take the time out to smell the flowers, plant a Michelia and the fragrance will come to find you.