MANGLIETIA insignis. Red lotus tree. Southwestern China. This is a robust tree of the magnolia family, potentially as much as 100’ high though easily controllable at a much lesser height. It is upright-oval in form and has attractive grey-brown bark The leaves are up to 10" long, narrowly pointed-oval in shape. They droop gracefully along the stems. Their color is deep green above, pale and bluer beneath. Cupped magnolia-like flowers are carried at the shoot tips in early summer. Each has several narrow segments up to 3" long, cream or pink-tinged within, pale pink to red without. Spikes of purplish red fruits later decorate the plant. This is a stunningly beautiful specimen tree, though not one for harsh conditions. It should have some protection against sun and drying winds except along the coast, non-alkaline soil and moderate to regular watering. It is hardy to 15oF. or less. This is one of several promising introductions by Piroche Plants in British Columbia (see also Michelia and Parakmeria).