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. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
Star Magnolia does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. Check moisture below the mulch during establishment and water thoroughly when needed rather than following a rigid schedule.
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
Combine Star Magnolia with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
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. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
