Saucer magnolia (Magnolia  × soulangeana) mag-NO-lee-ah ex soo-lan-jee-AY-nah Genus:  Magnolia This widely grown hybrid of M. denudata and M. lilliflora is the ancestor to numerous cultivars and grows to 25 feet tall. In mid-spring, it bears fragrant, saucer-shaped white flowers from 3 to 6 inches across deeply flushed with rose-pink or violet. Care:  Grow in moist, well-drained, preferably acidic to neutral soil in sun or partial shade; magnolias do not tolerate wet feet. Magnolia flowerbuds are susceptible to late-season frosts; shelter large-leaved species from windy locations. Prune shrubs in late winter or late summer to prevent bleeding of sap; prune minimally to maintain a healthy framework.  Propagation:  Sow seeds in autumn or stratify to hasten germination. Root softwood cuttings in early summer. Magnolias can be layered in early spring, grafted in winter, and propagated by bud in summer. Problems:  Bacterial leaf spot, spot anthracnose, canker, dieback, butt rot, powdery mildew, anthracnose, fungal spots, weevils, snails, scale insects, thrips, planthoppers.

Overview

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