Discover dramatic beauty of Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata), a medium-sized shrub or small tree, celebrated for its compact size and remarkable star-shaped white flowers. This slow-growing marvel measures between 15 to 20 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide, boasting a rounded crown and delightful glossy clusters of fragrant blooms every late winter to early spring. Note though, as the earliest blossoming member of the magnolia family it sometimes falls prey to frost damage. Bright orange seeds are exposed when the cone-like fruits burst open in late summer, following flowering. The leaves emerge with a unique bronze tone, transition to a dark green in summer and transform to yellow in autumn.
The term 'stellata' speaks to the star-like form of its flowers.
Prosperous in full sun and moist, organically rich, slightly acidic to neutral well-drained soils, Star Magnolia is a hardy grower even in clay soil and partial shade. It does best in full sun and benefits from even moisture in summer, while avoiding extreme dry or wet conditions. It needs protection from frost and excessive wind, and the roots benefit from mulching. Pruning is rarely necessary, but possible after flowering. While it can be propagated from seeds or stem cuttings, the former might be a challenging endeavor.
Begin your relationship with the star magnolia when it starts flowering in its second or third year. Stun your neighborhood with this early bloomer, perfect as an accent, border, or foundation planting.