A compact, narrow magnolia with glossy dark leaves backed in rich rust felt and large, lemon-scented creamy-white flowers borne over a long season. A versatile screening and feature shrub-tree.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 4 m H × 2.5 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Little Gem Magnolia
Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem' is a moderate-growing shrub in the Magnoliaceae family. It reaches around 4 m tall and 2.5 m wide at maturity, with evergreen foliage. White flowers appear for much of the year.
Where to grow Little Gem Magnolia
Little Gem Magnolia suits warm-temperate, cool-temperate and subtropical climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Little Gem Magnolia does best in free-draining, loamy and acidic soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in. For a screen, space plants about 1.5 m apart.
Watering & feeding
Little Gem Magnolia does best with regular, moderate watering. Apply a balanced fertiliser in spring to support healthy growth. Keep a newly planted specimen evenly watered through its first season; established plants can then follow the water needs above.
Pruning & care
Prune Little Gem Magnolia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. It clips well, so trim two or three times a year for a formal finish. Its ongoing care level is low maintenance.
Using Little Gem Magnolia in the garden
Little Gem Magnolia earns its place for a fast screen or informal hedge, a feature or specimen planting, its fragrance and pots and courtyard containers. It is equally at home in the ground or a large pot on a balcony or courtyard.
Companion planting & design
Build the planting around neighbours suited to the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate as Little Gem Magnolia. Repeating the foliage or flower colour nearby will make the composition feel deliberate.
Buying Little Gem Magnolia
Plant Sale lists Little Gem Magnolia as potted plants and advanced specimens. Use the interest form above to check current sizes, pricing and availability before ordering.
