Magnolias give life to Porto's streets


When walking the paths of the Inner Waist and entering the Amaral Neighborhood is possible to find a street with traces postmodern with a small curvature that’s name is Street of the Magnolias.
Then, it’s easy to imagine a street full of magnolias, with a large arboreal incidence of this medium-sized species and perennial leaves, which in time of flowering cause great impact by the beauty of its flowers. There are those who say that they don’t all sprout at the same time, the first are white, but with the passing of days the streets are filled with colors brought by the flowers of these trees.
It’s not only in this street that one can observe the beauty of this species, it’s spread a little throughout the unconquered city from the Francisco Sá Carneiro Square to the Allies Avenue until the Serralves Foundation passing through many other points.
Not originating in Europe, but perfectly adapted to the climate of this region, these trees do not represent a great attractiveness with regard to commercial interest. However, as ornamental elements, its flowers are the most chosen because of its size and its perfume. They are imposing trees that can reach more than 15 meters of height and reach to the 100 years of age.
They can be found in several colors but in the city of Oporto the white and purple are the most common. It’s possible to find and be enchanted with the beauty of this species in several places of the city, either in the Avenue of the Allies, the way to the Clérigos Tower or the exit of the Train Station in Campanhã. Although without leaves at this time of year, since they are perennial and fall mostly in winter, the exuberant and remarkable flowering begins in February.
Despite the beauty, these flowers hide some unwanted friends for those who suffer from entomophobia (insect aversion) because it is possible to find some of these beetles that are responsible for pollination of the plant.
When walking the streets of the city of Porto, it’s impossible to dosn’t notice the beauty of this trees and their flowers, the way they merge with the city and its architecture. Always raise your eyes and be sure to observe this species during your walks around the city!
One curiosity is the fact that in Invicta there already exists a hotel that’s called Magnólia Porto Hostel & Suites.

Written by: Matheus Rabelo
Photo by: Andreia Castro
Translated by: Marta Costa

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