Leonard Messel Loebner Magnolia: Two-Tone Pink and White Stars

Magnolia × loebneri 'Leonard Messel'

This rounded, small tree grows to 25 feet tall. A cross of M. kobus and M. stellata 'Rosea', it has star-shaped flowers with 12 narrow petals—white inside and purplish-pink outside. The color transition from bud to bloom is a beautiful study. Fragrant blossoms appear before leaves in early to mid-spring.

Growing Conditions & Care

Grow in moist, well-drained, preferably acidic to neutral soil in sun or partial shade; magnolias do not tolerate wet feet. Flower buds are susceptible to late frosts; shelter large-leaved species from wind. Prune in late winter or late summer to prevent sap bleeding; prune minimally.

Propagation

Sow seeds in autumn or stratify. Root softwood cuttings in early summer. Can be layered in early spring, grafted in winter, or propagated by bud in summer.

Common Problems

Bacterial leaf spot, spot anthracnose, canker, dieback, butt rot, powdery mildew, anthracnose, fungal spots, weevils, snails, scale insects, thrips, planthoppers.

Quick Reference

• Height: 15–30 ft.
• Spread: 15–30 ft.
• Growth Habit: Clumps
• Growth Pace: Moderate
• Light: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Moisture: Medium
• Maintenance: Low
• Bloom Time: Spring
• Flower Color: Pink, Purple, White
• Uses: Beds and Borders, Flowering Tree, Naturalizing, Specimen Plant/Focal Point
• Style: Formal Garden, Woodland Garden
• Type: Trees