• beautiful small flowered magnolia from Japan
• hardy to zone three if sheltered
• unknown deer resistance
• early spring flowering, late April, early May
• starburst white flowers
• requires, sun tolerant of a little shade
• requires well -drained loam, prefers acidic but will tolerate a balanced pH

I have grown two Star Magnolias. This is one of very few magnolias that will grow in a zone 3 climate. My first one died as it got too shady and dry I suspect so I would advise planting in a sheltered sunny spot. This magnolia will tolerate a less acidic soil but it does need to be well drained and loamy. Star Magnolia is a slow grower but can reach a height of 10 feet in happy conditions. Magnolias bloom on old wood, which means great care must be taken, when and if you must prune. Prune immediately after blooming if necessary. The grey fuzzy flower buds form in the autumn and can easily be seen throughout the winter. If you choose to protect this small shrub/tree with remay(row cover) or burlap, care must be taken not to knock off the buds. This dear little shrub will reward you in early spring with scented pure white flowers. There are some pink varieties also.

If this plant appeals to you, it is one of the first to disappear from nurseries in the spring – just a heads up!