Identifying a Mystery Shrub: Saucer Magnolia from Description and Sketch

An Alabama gardener (zone 7-8) wants to identify a neighbor's 3-foot shrub with large pink/red flowers resembling crocus or tulips, 1-3 inches diameter, and small leaves. The plant isn't very bushy. A rough sketch is provided.

Identification: Saucer Magnolia

The description and sketch match Magnolia × soulangeana 'Alexandrina' (Saucer Magnolia / Tulip Tree). Key confirming features:

• Deciduous: loses leaves in winter
• Upright, open habit when young; becomes more tree-like with age
• Large, goblet-shaped flowers (3-6 inches) in early spring before leaves
• Flower color: white flushed with pink to deep rose-purple
• Leaves: simple, alternate, 3-6 inches long, medium green
• Height: 15-25 feet at maturity (can be maintained as large shrub)

Culture and Care

• Light: Full sun to part shade (best flowering in full sun)
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, acidic (pH 5.0-6.5)
• Water: Regular; drought causes sparse blooms and stunted growth
• Pruning: Minimal. Only remove dead/crossing branches immediately after flowering to preserve next year's buds.
• Transplanting: Poor tolerance. Choose permanent site carefully.
• Wind: Protect from strong winds; brittle branches break easily.

Varieties for Smaller Spaces

If 3 feet is the mature size (not a young plant), consider these compact cultivars:

• M. × soulangeana 'Lilliputian' - 8-10 feet
• M. × soulangeana 'Black Tulip' - 15-20 feet, deep burgundy flowers
• M. stellata (Star Magnolia) - 10-15 feet, white star-shaped flowers

Getting a Definitive ID

For certainty, photograph:

• Flower close-up (side and interior)
• Leaf arrangement and shape
• Bark texture on older stems
• Overall habit

Take to local nursery, extension office, or use a plant ID app.