Description:

This deciduous magnolia tree is a hybrid between M. kobus and M. stellata. When in full bloom, its wide,rounded habit gives a dramatic impression to anyone strolling through the landscape. 'Leonard Messel' is a 1996 Cary Award winner.

Leaves:

Oblong oval with blunt tips. Dark green and sometimes turning golden in the fall.

Flowers:

'Leonard Messel' flowers are white with pink lines along the centers of the petals and some fuschia tinges on the backs of the sepals. Blooms in March- April.

Height:

These hybrids can range from 15 to 30 feet with equal or greater spread. 'Leonard Messel' will not grow much over 20.

Site Requirements:

Prefers a moist, peaty soil, slightly acidic. Full sun, light shade tolerance, but avoid hot southern exposures for best flower show. Hardy in zones 4-8.

Sustainable Features:

Basically pest-free.

Landscape Use:

Excellent specimen, focal point. Allow plenty of space between newly-planted, young trees and buildings. Could also use as backdrop in large area.

Propagation Information for the Grower:

Roots readily from softwood cuttings.

Other Cultivars:

'Ballerina'- extra full, white flowers with pink centers, especially fragrant; flowers tend to escape late spring frosts; grows to 20 feet
'Merrill'- flowers look like white clouds; faster growth rate

Sustainable plants are noninvasive and require less pesticides, water, fertilizer. and maintenance. The use of sustainable plants, in conjunction with sound horticultural practices is one of the most effective long-term approaches to avoiding pesticide misuse in the landscape. The URI Sustainable Landscapes Program is working to increase the availability and consumer demand for sustainable plants.