Magnolia stellata (Star Magnolia)

Magnolia stellata (Star Magnolia) white flower held in a hand among several smaller blossoms.

Botanical name: Magnolia stellata

Common name: Star Magnolia

Family: Magnoliaceae

Origin: Japan

USDA Zone: 5-9

Cold tolerance: -10°F

Plant form: Small tree

Mature height: 10-20 ft

Sun exposure: Full sun or bright light indoor; semi-shade

Cold tolerance: Tolerates light freezing to about 30°F for short periods (mature plants). Young plants must be protected.

Watering: Regular

Flower color: White and off-white

Suitable for: Outdoors in the suitable USDA zone; small gardens, containers, and indoor growing

Foliage: Deciduous

Fragrance: Fragrant; perfume plant

Wildlife: Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds

Very slow growing, star magnolia is usually seen in home landscapes as a medium sized shrub. In autumn the leaves turn yellow to bronze before falling. It is striking in late winter or early spring when it appears smothered in brilliant white flowers as it blooms before the leaves appear. Star magnolia likes deep, organic, acid soil. Propagation: It is fairly easy to root cuttings taken after the flower buds have formed in early to mid summer. Treat with rooting hormone to insure success. Seeds may be used, but they need special handling and are slow to germinate.

See Article about Tropical Magnolias.