Magnolia stellata /ˌmæɡˈnəʊ.li.ə/
Common name: Star magnolia
Magnolia stellata is a slow-growing deciduous shrub or small tree native to Japan, where it grows wild on Honshu. It is one of the earliest magnolias to flower, producing masses of fragrant, star-shaped white blossoms in late winter to early spring before the leaves appear. Its compact size and cold hardiness make it one of the most popular magnolias for small gardens.
Care summary
Sun
Full sun to light shade
Water
Evenly moist; dislikes drying out when young
Soil
Humus-rich, moist, well-drained; acidic to neutral
Hardiness
Zones 4–9
Mature height
About 150–300 cm (5–10 ft)
Pet safe
Yes; not listed as toxic to cats or dogs
Difficulty
Moderate
Propagation
Propagate by softwood or semi-ripe cuttings taken in early to mid summer, kept humid with bottom heat until rooted. Ground layering a low branch in spring is a dependable alternative, usually rooting within a year or two.
Fun facts
- Each flower can have 12 to 18 or more narrow strap-like tepals, which is what gives the bloom its starry look — the epithet "stellata" means "starred".
- It is one of the parents of the popular hybrid Magnolia ×loebneri, crossed with Magnolia kobus.
- In the wild it is considered near-threatened in Japan, but it is abundant in cultivation worldwide.
- Because it flowers on bare wood so early, late frosts can brown the blossoms — gardeners often site it out of morning sun to slow thawing.