Cucumber Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata): Native Yellow-Flowered Magnolia

Cucumber magnolia is a large deciduous tree native to eastern North America, the only magnolia with yellow-green flowers and cucumber-like fruit, a majestic forest tree.

Botanical Profile

Description and Features

This tree grows 60–80 feet tall with a pyramidal to rounded crown. Leaves are large, ovate, pointed (acuminate). Flowers are yellow-green, tulip-shaped, 2–3 inches, often hidden by foliage. Fruit is a pinkish, cucumber-shaped aggregate follicle, turning red, splitting to reveal red seeds.

Cultivation and Uses

Cucumber magnolia prefers full sun to partial shade, moist, well-drained, acidic soil. It is a magnificent shade tree for large properties. The wood is used for veneer, furniture. It is the hardiest magnolia.

Note

Flowers are not showy from a distance but interesting up close.