Small low-branched tree with large, saucer-shaped flowers. Early-spring blossoms are pinkish-purple outside, white inside. Medium fast-growing, good pollution tolerance. Likes moist, deep, acid soil and full sun. Grows to 20' to 30', 25' spread. (zones 4-9)

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Attributes:
One of the most popular flowering trees in the United States, this tree is planted widely both in America and Europe. The tree tolerates poor soil and air pollution and is often used as an ornamental. This tree will exhibit blossoms when other trees are finished for the season.

Description:
Small low-branched tree with large, saucer-shaped flowers. Early-spring blossoms are pinkish-purple outside, white inside. Medium fast-growing, good pollution tolerance. Likes moist, deep, acid soil and full sun. Avoid frost pockets as late spring frosts and freezes will kill flower buds. Grows to 20' to 30', 25' spread. (zones 4-9)

Wildlife Value:
Wildlife use larger dead branches of the Saucer Magnolia as nesting sites and the sprouts of young trees are browsed.

History/Lore/Use:
A hybrid cousin of America's magnificent Southern Magnolia, the Saucer Magnolia is actually a large spreading shrub that take its name from its wide, saucer-like flowers. First cultivated in 1826.

Moisture:
Moist, has some drought resistance.

Leaves:
The leaves are simple, alternate, three to six inches in length, about half as wide. Medium to dark green in summer, they sometimes turn an attractive brown in autumn.

Flower Color:
The flowers are pink and white, are very attractive, can reappear throughout the summer and sometimes will carry over into winter although the colors tend to fade with re-emerging blossoms.

Bloom Time:
Late February to April..

Fruit Description:
The fruit is elongated, 1 to 3 inches long; they appear in August and contain small, pointed red or deep pink seeds. Attractive to birds, they do produce minor amounts of litter.