Magnolia stellata

Native to Japan and suited to the borders of all gardens, Magnolia stellata is the representative of this genus to cultivate where space limits the height and spread of other Magnolias. Where to plant? Choose a position where soil disturbance will be minimal and the need to prune non existent.

Felty brown buds split apart and with developing growth delicate pink buds emerge to the spring light. On expanding these loose the pink blemish becoming pure white, flimsy and unfortunately easily marked by heavy rain or a frost. Not reasons to deter you from planting this multi branched small tree often thought of as a large shrub.

Magnolia stellata

Collections from Japan are at seedling stage in the nursery. Collected in 2005 from plants in Gifu Prefecture, at the southern extent of its range. The mother plant was growing to 10m x 10m in a damp flat south facing valley. Found in a mixed species hedge bounding fields, companion plants; Hydrangea paniculata, Ilex serrata. Here flower colour ranged from pink to white.