The differences between white orchid and white magnolia lie mainly in flowering period, flower shape and habits

White orchid (Michelia alba) and white magnolia (Magnolia denudata) are both common ornamental plants of the Magnoliaceae family. Their names differ by only one character, and their flowers are mainly white, so they are often confused. In fact, the two belong to different genera: white orchid belongs to the genus Michelia, while white magnolia belongs to the genus Magnolia. They differ clearly in habits, flowering period and flower shape, and once you understand these differences, they are easy to tell apart.

White magnolia is a deciduous tree that flowers before the leaves emerge. In early spring the whole tree is covered in white flowers, and the tepals are broad and thick, usually nine in number, shaped like a jade cup, with a delicate fragrance. White orchid, by contrast, is an evergreen tree whose flowering period is concentrated in summer and autumn. Its flowers are smaller than those of magnolia, with narrow, finger-like petals and a rich fragrance, and it is fairly common on streets and in courtyards in the south.

In terms of care, white magnolia is relatively cold-hardy and can be grown outdoors in both the north and the south, shedding its leaves and going dormant in winter; white orchid prefers warmth and humidity, is not cold-hardy, and is mostly grown in pots in the north, needing to be moved indoors for warmth in winter. White orchid should be watered by the principle of watering when dry and letting it dry out between waterings, avoiding waterlogging that rots the roots; white magnolia, on the other hand, needs pruning after flowering and appropriate fertilizing to accumulate nutrients for the next year's bloom.

In terms of uses, white orchid has a strong fragrance and, besides being ornamental, is often used to scent flower tea and extract essence, and can also be worn as a decoration; white magnolia is prized for its early-spring flowers and is a traditional garden and courtyard tree. To tell the two apart, remember: the one that flowers before its leaves in early spring, with broad petals, is white magnolia; the one with green leaves and white flowers in summer, with a strong fragrance, is white orchid.