Which Magnolia Tree to Plant

If you are looking to add a magnolia tree to your garden, you may be overwhelmed by the variety of species and cultivars available. Magnolias are a popular choice for their beautiful flowers, fragrance, and distinctive foliage. In this article, we will go over some of the most popular magnolia species and help you decide which one is right for you.

Southern Magnolia

The Southern magnolia, or Magnolia grandiflora, is a large evergreen tree that is native to the southeastern United States. It is a popular ornamental tree known for its large, fragrant white flowers and glossy green leaves with a brown velvety underside. The Southern magnolia can grow up to 80 feet tall and 50 feet wide, making it a great shade tree for larger landscapes.

Star Magnolia

The Star magnolia, or Magnolia stellata, is a smaller deciduous tree that is native to Japan. It is known for its beautiful early spring blooms of pink and white flowers, and its delicate, star-shaped petals. The Star magnolia grows to be 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide, making it a great choice for a smaller garden or as a specimen tree.

Saucer Magnolia

The Saucer magnolia, or Magnolia x soulangeana, is a hybrid of the previous two species. It is a deciduous tree with large, showy flowers that can bloom in shades of pink, purple, and white. The Saucer magnolia can grow up to 25 feet tall and wide, making it a great choice for a focal point in a garden or as a street tree.

Little Gem Magnolia

The Little Gem magnolia, or Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem', is a smaller evergreen tree that is a cultivar of the Southern magnolia. It is known for its compact size and profuse blooming throughout the summer months. The Little Gem magnolia can grow up to 30 feet tall and 20 feet wide, making it a great choice for a small garden or as a hedge.

Yellow Magnolia

The Yellow magnolia, or Magnolia acuminata, is a native tree of North America. It is known for its fragrant, lemon-scented flowers that bloom in the spring before the leaves emerge. The Yellow magnolia can grow up to 80 feet tall and 50 feet wide, making it a great shade tree for a larger garden or landscape.

Cucumber Tree Magnolia

The Cucumber Tree magnolia, or Magnolia acuminata, is a native tree of eastern North America. It is known for its cucumber-shaped fruit that is produced in the fall, as well as its fragrant, yellow-green flowers that bloom in the spring. The Cucumber Tree magnolia can grow up to 80 feet tall and 50 feet wide, making it a great shade tree for larger landscapes.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the magnolia tree you choose will depend on your personal preferences, the size of your garden, and the climate in which you live. Whether you choose a large shade tree like the Southern magnolia or a compact ornamental tree like the Star magnolia, you can be sure that a magnolia tree will add beauty and fragrance to your garden for many years to come.