MAGNOLIA stellata

Description

MAGNOLIA stellata, also called star magnolia, produces at the very beginning of spring a countless quantity of lightly scented white flowers with fairly narrow petals. They measure 10 to 15 cm in diameter and appear before the foliage. They make it a real marvel because at this time of year, there are only few flowers in the garden.
You can use the branches for bouquets (just before they bloom).
The name magnolia makes us think of a tree, while the star magnolia can be described as bushy. As a result, it also easily finds a place in small gardens or in a pot on a terrace.
Then, in autumn, its small leaves take on a beautiful yellow color and thus brighten up this time of year.
Finally, in winter, the flower buds covered in light gray velvet enhance the look of this little champion.

How to plant and care for MAGNOLIA stellata?

1. Plant it in a location in full sun or partial shade. This can be a pot on the terrace or a flowerbed in the garden.
2. The soil should be light or normal moderately moist or moist and an acidic or neutral pH.
3. Prune M. stellata in August, if necessary. However, this is unlikely since it grows very slowly and remains petite compared to other magnolia species.

This bushy magnolia resists temperatures below -20° C.

For a good preparation of the pot or ground, we have designed specific instructions available here. Furthermore, discover here how to water your garden and save water.

History and Origin

MAGNOLIA stellata comes from Japan and more precisely from the Ise Bay area in the center of Honshu (the largest island in Japan). In its natural habitat, it is found along rivers and even in very humid areas.

This type species is very close to MAGNOLIA kobus. It was introduced to the United States in 1862 and to the United Kingdom in 1877.