A dainty deciduous magnolia that opens masses of fragrant, star-shaped white flowers on bare twigs in late winter and early spring. Perfect for smaller gardens and courtyards.
At a glance
- Plant type: Shrub
- Mature size: 3 m H × 3 m W
- Aspect: full sun and part shade or morning sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Star Magnolia
Botanically, Magnolia stellata is a slow-growing shrub in the Magnoliaceae family. It reaches around 3 m tall and 3 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. White flowers appear in winter and spring.
Where to grow Star Magnolia
Star Magnolia suits cool-temperate and warm-temperate climates and grows best in full sun and part shade or morning sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Star Magnolia does best in loamy, free-draining and acidic soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Star Magnolia is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Star Magnolia after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Star Magnolia in the garden
Star Magnolia earns its place for 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
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Star Magnolia with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is regarded as non-toxic and pet-safe. It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Star Magnolia
Plant Sale lists Star Magnolia as potted plants and advanced specimens. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it is available.