A star magnolia G. Lumis	The leaf of a star magnolia G. Lumis	A star magnolia blossom G. Lumis

Scientific Name: Magnolia stellata

Summary
Foliage: Deciduous broadleaf
Height: 15 to 20 feet
Spread: 10 to 15 feet
Shape: Bushy

Dark green summer foliage turns yellow-bronze in fall. Large, white flowers appear before foliage in spring. 

Plant Needs
Zone: 5 to 9
Light: Partial shade to full sun
Moisture: Wet or moist
Soil Type: Sandy or loam
pH Range: 3.5 to 7.0

Functions
Suggested uses for this plant include border and specimen plant.

Planting Notes 
Transplant in the spring in a location protected from wind.  Avoid southern exposures to reduce change of early flowers being damaged by spring frosts.  Buy plants with balled and burlapped roots or container-grown plants.  Plant in fertile, moist, well-drained soil.

Care
Easy to maintain.  If required, prune after spring flowering.  Mulch to conserve soil moisture.

Click here to learn how to improve the soil.

Problems 
Generally pest free.

Alternatives
Consult local sources, including historic or public gardens and arboreta, regarding cultivars and related species that grow well in your area.

Cultivars of MAGNOLIA STELLATA
`Rosea' has pink flowers.

`Centennial' has petals which have a pink tinge on the outside.

`Pink Star' has pink flowers that fade to white.

Comments
The Star Magnolia is a dense, mounded, large shrub or small tree.  Provides a striking floral show in early spring.  Best used alone or in small groups.

Text courtesy Michigan State University Extension Service 

Back to Types of Magnolias   

TOP