Description:

This small tree/ large shrub is native to Japan and maintains a dense, oval, low-branching form with close-set stems. M. stellata is a lovely plant but many of the cultivars are even more preferable. 'Centennial' was introduced by Arnold Arboretum to commemorate their 100th anniversary in 1979.

Leaves:

Dark green, large, oval shape with rounded tips. Yellow to bronze in autumn. Fuzzy buds are quite attractive in spring.

Flowers:

Very large, fragrant, blooming in March or April before the leaves come out. Early flowers are sometimes susceptible to late frosts and harsh winds. Even very young trees will flower. Petals on 'Centennial' are white with a pink tinge around the outside, and the flowers are especially open and full.

Height:

15-20 feet with almost equal spread.

Sustainable Features:

Basically pest-free.

Landscape Use:

Excellent specimen, quite popular. Foundation plantings, large tree lawns. Avoid hot southern exposures for best flowering.

Site Requirements:

Prefers full sun but will tolerate some shade. Flowers will be most reliable when this species is planted in cooler exposures (north, east) to avoid a too-early blooming subsequently killed by late frost. Soil should be moist, deep, slightly acidic, good organic matter content. Allow adequate space for root development. Prune shortly after flowering is over. Hardy in zones 5-8.

Propagation Information for the Grower:

Stratify seed for four to six months at 35-40 degrees F to overcome embryo dormancy. Cuttings should be collected when terminal (flower) buds have formed. Wound the cuttings, treat with a fairly high concentration of IBA, and put under mist. M. stellata roots more easily than some of the other magnolias.

Other Cultivars:

'Royal Star'- possibly the most common M. stellata; flowers are a bit smaller and opening a bit later than 'Centennial'
'Rubra'- purplish flowers that fade to pink; compact form; yellow-green foliage
'Dawn'- white flowers with pink stripe running the length of each petal

Sustainable plants are those which are non-invasive 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 U.R.I. Sustainable Landscapes Program is working to increase the availability and consumer demand for sustainable plants.