Woodie’s Picks: Early Blooming Magnolia Trees for a Magical Spring Display
When you think of Magnolia trees, a similar vision likely comes to mind: southern charm, giant dinner-plate-sized white blooms in the heat of summer, and lustrous green and brown foliage that towers over a space and makes a grand statement. While we love these classic Grandiflora Magnolias, today, we wanted to shed light on some lesser-known Magnolia trees that shine with beauty in the early spring season.
While a handful of trees don’t begin to show color until April or May, these select Magnolia trees explode with bold color and beauty as early as March! Keep reading to learn more about the different Magnolia cultivars available and how they can elevate your early spring landscape!
A Brief History of Magnolia Cultivars
Magnolia trees are considered one of the oldest flowering plants, with fossil records dating back over 100 million years. They were once widespread globally but are primarily found in East Asia and Eastern North America today. The varying Magnolia species fall into two categories: Evergreen and Deciduous.
Evergreen Magnolias
The majority of American magnolias are evergreen, with the most well-known being the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). These are those extravagant, shiny-leaved trees that flourish with giant white summertime blooms. Evergreen Magnolias are the perfect option for providing year-round interest and sophisticated grace in an outdoor space.
Deciduous Magnolias
Most Magnolia species native to Asia are considered deciduous. This means that these specimens cycle through the seasons: bloom in spring, explode with green foliage in summer, transition colors and drop leaves in fall, and sport naked bark in winter. While beautiful at every stage, the most highly anticipated stage in this cycle is the magical display of blooms in early spring. Below are some of our favorite early spring all-stars.
Favorite Early Blooming Deciduous Magnolias
Saucer Magnolia
The Saucer Magnolia is a star in the early spring landscape. Praised for the stunning pale pink blooms that appear before the leaves, the Saucer is a captivating specimen that has a magnetic presence in any yard. The tree’s moderate size makes it perfect for a range of different projects, and it is relatively low-maintenance once established. Hardy to USDA zones 5-9, the Saucer Magnolia tolerates a range of conditions and grows best in full sun and well-drained soils.
Magnolia Butterflies
Next on our list is one of the most unique magnolias on the market. Producing pale, butter-yellow blooms that resemble large tulips, Magnolia Butterflies radiate warmth, happiness, and delicate beauty in a landscape. This deciduous hybrid cultivar is a cross between M. acuminata 'Fertile Myrtle' and M. denudata 'Sawada's Cream'. The canary yellow blooms grow up to 5” across and give off a refreshing lemon aroma.
Magnolia Jane
The Magnolia Jane is a vibrant bloomer in the early spring landscape. Sporting a similar look and size to the Saucer Magnolia, Magnolia Jane differentiates itself through its electrifying magenta-reddish-purple blooms.
The Jane is drought-resistant, cold-hardy, and easy to grow! Hardy to USDA zones 4-8, the Magnolia Jane is slow-growing and reaches maturity between 10 to 15 feet tall and wide. Magnolia Jane provides weeks of beauty in early to mid-spring and is a perfect choice for creating seasonal interest in the garden.
Royal Star Magnolia
Last on the list of lesser-known Magnolias for early spring beauty is the Royal Star Magnolia. The Royal Star Magnolia has large white star-shaped blooms with skinnier, more elongated petals than your typical grandiflora magnolia.
As the ideal accent tree for smaller landscapes, this gorgeous landscaping tree grows in a rounded habit to between 10-20 feet tall and 8-15 feet wide. Blooming earlier than most varieties, this magnificent specimen is a snow-white beauty that adds unmatched interest and beauty to the early spring landscape.
Shop Spring Magnolias Online
Whether you’re drawn to the evergreen Southern Magnolias or the early spring deciduous beauties, we have so many gorgeous specimens to offer that will elevate any landscape they grow in. Order online today and enjoy shipment directly to your doorstep!