Foliage and form anchor a plant in the landscape and give it a sense of space. Often it's the flowers that elevate and accent a plant and make it genuinely unforgettable. With all three parts in place, star magnolia (Magnolia stellata) is a tree for all seasons. Whether its snowy white blooms entice you in winter, or sprawling gray limbs and densely-packed leaves grab you in summer, the dynamic transitions of star magnolia keeps eyes and gardens inspired year-round.

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by Rosie55

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Botanical name: Magnolia stellata

Common name: Star magnolia

USDA zones: 4-8

Water requirement: Regular

Sun requirement: Full sun

Mature size: 10-15’ tall x 20’ spread

Environmental benefits: Provides food and shelter for wildlife

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by Brooklyn Botanic Garden

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Distinguishing traits. A beautiful tree year-round, the winter-borne white flowers of star magnolia are what distinguishes this deciduous tree. In late winter, slightly fragrant 3-inch white and pink-tinged blossoms abound even before the tree leafs out for spring. An outburst of flowers decorates the otherwise barren structure and allows you to appreciate the tree's beautiful structure and gray bark.

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by Steve Lynx

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In summer, after the flowers have faded, small elliptic leaves emerge. They deepen in color as the season progresses, eventually reaching a subtle seasonal gold before dropping.

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by CQuinn001

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Slow-growing and shrubby, star magnolia’s multi-stemmed structure is oval and upright in youth. As the tree matures, it transitions to an elegantly sculptural and spreading form.

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by Maja Dumat

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How to use it. Star magnolia can be an attractive landscape feature to enjoy from indoors as well as out. Frame a view of star magnolia out your kitchen window or living room.

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by Powell Gardens, Kansas City's Botanical Garden

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You can use star magnolia as a specimen tree in settings where space may be limited, such as patios and urban gardens.

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by gignomai

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Keep it growing. Star magnolia is an adaptable, easy-to-grow tree that is commonly available. Blooming before many other magnolia species, star magnolia makes a dramatic impact in any winter garden.

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by xsalto

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Magnolia scale is the most common affliction of star magnolia. In order to avoid scale, be sure to check for infected specimens when you purchase your tree. Prune branches that become infected to prevent the spread of the disease.

Ensure your tree’s health and happiness through regular, deep waterings and by placing nutrient-rich soil around the base of the tree.

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by Brooklyn Botanic Garden

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Comments

Lenkin Design Inc: Landscape and Garden Design says:

Stunningly beautiful!

3 months ago · Like

Nell Jean says:

The white is usually the lovely Dr. Merrill. I grow the pink, Leonard Messel, equally lovely in the landscape.

3 months ago · Like

Amy Renea says:

This is one of my winter FAVORITES! I love the fuzzy little buds and explosion of white in spring! Great book Annie!

3 months ago · Like

gknee says:

I have a huge Star Magnolia in my front yard that is sprouting buds already. I do love this tree and its gorgeous flowers which I cut and bring indoors. I only wish the blossoms lasted longer.

3 months ago · Like

neben says:

so happy to see this shrub/tree. can finally plant one outside my kitchen window. Can't wait!

3 months ago · Like

designchallenged says:

I want one -- or two . . . . .

3 months ago · Like

Michelle says:

Its cousin, the tulip magnolia, is equally attractive. When in bloom, there are not as many flowers, but they are bigger and last longer. The tree itself is quite taller and wider.