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Tree Guide

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Little Gem MagnoliaMagnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’

  • Saucer Magnolia - Magnolia x soulangeana
All the charm of a southern magnolia in a smaller size, the little gem magnolia is a popular ornamental choice for people living in hardiness zones 6 through 10. It is often used as a standout landscape specimen, to add evergreen beauty near decks and patios, as a floral screen or hedge, and in large containers.

If you choose this variety, you will be rewarded early on. The shrub blooms as soon as two or three years old and provides a profusion of fragrant blossoms in those early years of growth.

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Hardiness Zones

The little gem magnolia can be expected to grow in Hardiness Zones 6–10. View Map

Tree Type

Mature Size

The little gem magnolia grows to a height of 15–20' and a spread of 7–10' at maturity.

Growth Speed Slow Growth Rate

This tree grows at a slow rate, with height increases of less than 12" per year.

Sun Preference

Full sun and partial shade are best for this tree, meaning it prefers a minimum of four hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight each day.

Soil Preference

The little gem magnolia grows in acidic, loamy, moist, sandy, well-drained, and clay soils. It can withstand some flooding and has moderate drought tolerance.

Attributes

This tree:
  • Produces fragrant, white 4" flowers from mid-spring to summer, with heavy blooming in early years of growth.
  • Features elliptical evergreen leaves that are dark green and glossy on top and rusty brown underneath.
  • Yields cone-shaped fruit clusters up to 5" long with individual red-coated seeds.
  • Blooms at a younger age than most magnolias.
  • Grows in an upright shape.
  • Tolerates some flooding and moderate drought.
  • Produces organic litter from flowers, dry fruit, and leaves.

Wildlife Value

The fruit of the little gem magnolia attracts birds.