20 Types of Magnolia Trees To Plant For Stunning Flowers

Types of magnolia trees are so beautiful and diverse that you’ll want several gracing your landscape. Magnolias bring a sense of timeless elegance to any yard with their large, show-stopping blooms and curious, elegant leaves.

In this article, we’ll cover 20 of the hardiest and most popular cold-climate magnolia trees to consider for your home, from the classic southern magnolia to little-known gem varieties that offer unique foliage, fragrance, and flower color.

Whether you’re looking for an evergreen or deciduous magnolia that blooms in early spring or late summer, we have an option for you!

Types of Beautiful and Cold Hardy Magnolia Trees to Plant

1. Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

The southern magnolia tree, commonly known as magnolia, is known for its large, fragrant white blooms and evergreen, glossy leaves. In growing this southern magnolia tree, you’ll want to provide plenty of room for its enormous canopy, which can spread 20 to 30 feet wide. The leathery leaves and thick bark make this an extremely hardy magnolia that can thrive in zones six through nine.

The southern magnolia tree is often used as a specimen plant that commands attention with its lush foliage and giant cup-shaped flowers. The southern magnolia features large, fragrant white flowers that bloom in summer. The flowers range from five to 10 inches wide and emit a pleasant, citrusy fragrance that fills the air. The blooming period may last several weeks, adding visual interest and an appealing aroma to the landscape.

The southern magnolia tree’s glossy, dark green evergreen leaves are ovate or elliptical and measure six to 10 inches long. The leathery texture of the leaves helps protect them from damage caused by cold or drought. New leaves that are tinted purplish-red emerge before fading to lustrous dark green.

2. Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata)

The star magnolia tree (Magnolia stellata) produces clusters of fragrant pink or white flowers in spring before its leaves emerge. These star-shaped blooms appear along the branches and have many delicate, palm-like petals. As the name suggests, the flowers resemble small stars that light up the landscape in early spring.

The simple leaves of the star magnolia tree are oval-shaped and have a medium green color during spring and summer. In fall, the leaves turn an attractive coppery-bronze hue before dropping; the leaves measure around 3 to 6 inches in length.

This flower magnolia tree grows slowly to 15 to 20 feet tall and 20 feet wide at maturity; it needs partial shade and protection from wind to thrive. Plant the star magnolia in fertile, well-drained soil amended with organic matter like compost. Good drainage is essential as this tree is susceptible to root rot.

Prune star magnolia trees after they finish flowering to remove dead or diseased growth and improve their shape. Typically, little pruning is required besides light thinning and shearing to stimulate new growth.

The star magnolia flower blooms are very fragrant, especially at night. Their scent ranges from honey-like to spicy or fruity depending on the cultivar. Bees and other pollinators flock to these flowers for their nectar.

3. Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana)

The saucer magnolia gets its name from the wide, saucer-shaped purplish flowers that bloom in early spring. This deciduous magnolia tree has simple, dark green leaves with excellent fall color ranging from yellow to crimson. Saucer magnolias grow 20 to 30 feet tall and need minimal care once established.

Plant saucer magnolia trees in a spot with full sun to light shade. Be sure to water them consistently during dry periods in summer, especially when young. They tend to flower best with 8 to 10 hours of sunlight daily.

4. Loebner Magnolia (Magnolia loebneri)

The Loebner magnolia tree has rich burgundy-colored leaves that emerge in spring and stay on the tree throughout winter. This magnolia species produces vivid yellow blossoms in late spring, with a sweet lemon-like fragrance emanating from the flowers. The Loebner magnolia grows up to forty feet tall at maturity and thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones five until eight.

Give Loebner magnolia trees ample space to spread their imposing branches as they reach their full stature over decades. Prune only sparingly right after the fragrant yellow flowers fade to preserve and maintain the tree’s natural shape and form. This tree species favors locations with full exposure to the sun’s rays and rich, moisture-retentive soil that stays damp but well-drained.

5. Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)

The Sweetbay magnolia tree features aromatic, glossy ovate leaves and clusters of beautiful and fragrant white flowers with yellow stamens blooming from mid to late spring. This evergreen southern magnolia grows up to forty feet tall at maturity and thrives in USDA plant hardiness zones six through nine.

When the fresh leaves are crushed between the fingers, they emit a potent licorice-like odor that reminds one of anise spice, and as a result, the leaves are often used for culinary purposes.

Growing Sweetbay magnolia trees is relatively simple since they readily adapt to most well-drained soil types. The persnickety aspect of cultivating these trees provides ensuring adequate moisture through summer and fall, especially during extended dry spells.

These Live Oak magnolia species grow and flourish best along the margins of swamps, marshes, lakes or bogs, where the ground consistently retains moisture through capillary action in the porous soil minimizing the effort required for supplemental watering.

6. Cucumber Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata)

The cucumber magnolia tree gets its common name from the long, thin, tubular seedpods that form after the cream-colored flowers bloom in early spring, just before the oval leaves emerge on the branches. These elongate seedpods resemble small cucumbers and persist on the tree through summer.

In autumn, the broad elliptical leaves abruptly turn a vibrant golden yellow before dropping. The cucumber magnolia grows at an average rate, ultimately maturing into a sizable tree reaching heights between 40 to 60 feet and thriving in USDA plant hardiness zones five through nine.

Growing cucumber magnolias requires very little specialized care. They do best with consistent soil moisture, especially when young, so providing deep, regular watering during prolonged dry spells or drought conditions is advised. Mulching around the base of the tree also helps conserve soil moisture.

This southern magnolia tree species has a high light requirement and prefers full, direct sun, though it can tolerate some shade, especially when young. However, the brightest yellow foliage color in fall is produced on specimens grown in full sun for several years.

7. Umbrella Magnolia (Magnolia tripetala)

The umbrella magnolia tree produces large sprays of fragrant white flowers in early to mid-spring just before its rounded, simple leaves fully unfurl on the spreading branches. The hairy leaf undersides give the foliage a soft texture.

In autumn, the rounded leaves abruptly turn bronze, brown or maroon before dropping, leaving the elegant branching structure exposed through winter. This deciduous magnolia species typically grows into a sizable shade tree reaching heights up to 50 feet at maturity and tolerating USDA plant hardiness zones three through nine.

The umbrella magnolia tree needs full exposure to direct sunlight to thrive and produce the maximum number of large, showy flowers each spring. It also requires ample space to properly develop its vase-shaped canopy and umbrella-like crown, which gives the tree its common name.

Wet or poorly drained soils should be avoided to prevent root rot issues, a major cause of decline and death in umbrella magnolias. Placing the tree on a sunny slope or amending clay soils with organic matter prior to planting to enhance drainage and aeration around the roots can help avoid root diseases. Regular pruning may also be needed to maintain a pleasing shape and size.

8. Yellow/Golden Magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla)

The yellow magnolia tree, also called the golden magnolia, bears big, showy flowers in shades of pale to bright golden yellow that bloom in early spring just before its large, egg-shaped ovate leaves fully unfurl on the spreading branches. This magnolia species grows at a medium rate, ultimately maturing into a sizable shade tree reaching heights between 30 to 50 feet and thriving in USDA plant hardiness zones six through nine.

Plant yellow magnolia trees in locations with full exposure to bright, direct sunlight for the most vibrant yellow flowers and foliage color. They prefer moist, well-draining soil and partial shelter from strong winds, especially when young.

Pruning right after flowering each year helps maintain a desirable shape while encouraging larger blooms. Susceptibility to insect pests and fungal diseases increase in yellow magnolia trees grown in areas with poor air circulation and drainage like low-lying sites or locations surrounded by buildings or dense vegetation.

Providing good spacing between trees and improving soil conditions by incorporating organic matter into compacted sites can help reduce potential disease issues. Regular preventative spraying of organic fungicides may also benefit yellow magnolias grown under marginal conditions.

9. Kobus Magnolia (Magnolia kobus)

The Kobus magnolia tree produces fragrant clusters of white flowers in spring just before its broad, elliptical leaves unfurl on the arching branches. New foliage emerges with bronze to reddish tones that gradually turn dark green as the leaves mature. This deciduous magnolia grows at a medium rate, ultimately maturing into a small ornamental tree reaching heights between 20 to 30 feet and thriving in the USDA plant hardiness zones four until eight.

Growing Kobus magnolia trees requires little specialized care beyond pruning right after flowering each year to maintain a desirable size and shape. It is important to remember that this magnolia species prefers soil that is consistently moist but also well-draining.

Partial to full shade is also ideal, though Kobus magnolias can adapt to full sun if enough moisture is provided. Planting Kobus magnolias near or alongside ponds, streams or other sources of year-round moisture helps keep roots hydrated even during the driest months of summer without requiring supplemental watering.

The aromatic flowers and maroon-tinged foliage in spring make Kobus magnolias beautiful visual and olfactory additions to borders, beds and forest gardens, especially when underplanted with moisture-loving perennials and groundcovers.

10. Lily Magnolia (Magnolia liliiflora)

The lily  magnolia tree produces clusters of lightly fragrant white flowers in late winter to early spring just before its oval, bronze-tinged leaves emerge on the arching branches. This evergreen magnolia grows at a medium rate, ultimately maturing into a small tree reaching heights between 20 to 30 feet and thriving in USDA plant hardiness zones seven through ten.

Lily magnolias prefer soil that is consistently moist but also well-draining. Partial shade is also ideal, though they can adapt to full sun if provided sufficient moisture. Prune lily magnolia trees only as needed for shape and health, avoiding heavy cuts that can shock the plant.

Placing a 2 to 4 inch layer of mulch around the base of established trees helps conserve soil moisture, which is especially important during drought periods and summer months. Lily magnolias adapt well to different soil conditions when provided regular, deep watering — at least one inch of water per week during peak summer heat — especially while young and establishing.

The architectural branching structure and small, glossy leaves make lily magnolias attractive ornamental trees suitable for landscape use individually or in groupings. The flowers attract beneficial insects when in bloom and the evergreen foliage provides visual interest year-round.

11. Jane Magnolia (Magnolia x loebneri ‘Jane’)

The Jane magnolia variety is prized for its stunning purple-black foliage, which emerges deep bronze before turning almost jewel-tone dark purple as the leaves mature in spring. This dramatic foliage pairs beautifully with the fragrant white flowers that bloom in clusters before the leaves in early spring.

This deciduous magnolia grows at an average rate, ultimately reaching heights between 20 to 30 feet and thriving in USDA plant hardiness zones five through eight. Jane magnolias grow best when planted in full sun and provided consistently moist, well-draining soil. Pruning right after the flowers fade in late spring helps maintain a desirable size and shape while also encouraging larger blooms the following year.

Once established, these magnolias require very little care beyond occasional deep watering during periods of extended drought to prevent leaf drop. The beautiful foliage and fragrant flowers make Jane magnolias ideal accent trees for smaller gardens, especially when underplanted with shade-loving perennials and groundcovers.

The purple-black leaves also offer striking visual contrast when paired with chartreuse or cream-colored companions in the landscape. Jane magnolias deserve a prominent place in the discerning gardener’s yard for their unique color, fragrance, and relatively carefree nature once established.

12. Anise Magnolia (Magnolia salicifolia)

When the leaves of the anise magnolia tree are crushed between the fingers, they emit a potent licorice-like aroma that gives the plant its common name. This same anise fragrance is also released by the lightly fragrant white flowers that bloom in early spring before the leathery green leaves emerge.

This evergreen magnolia grows at a moderate rate, ultimately maturing into a small tree reaching heights between 20 to 30 feet and thriving in USDA plant hardiness zones seven through ten. Anise magnolias prefer partial shade and soil that is consistently moist but also well-draining. Prune only as needed for shaping and to remove damaged or diseased branches.

These trees thrive best when planted near streams, ponds or other sources of constant moisture where their shallow roots have access to year-round hydration. The architectural branching structure, small stature, and glossy foliage make anise magnolias an attractive ornamental tree for the landscape, especially underplanted with moisture-loving perennials or bulbs that can benefit from the constant moisture provided by their overlapping root zone.

The licorice-scented leaves and flowers also attract beneficial insects when in bloom, providing nectar for pollinators. Treasure the distinct anise fragrance of this little-known magnolia variety in your own garden oasis.

13. Evergreen Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’)

‘Little Gem’ is a dwarf variety of the evergreen southern magnolia tree. This mini magnolia grows slowly to only 15 to 20 feet tall with a wide spread. It produces large, fragrant white blooms year-round.

The ‘Little Gem’ evergreen magnolia thrives in zones seven through ten with consistently moist, well-draining soil and partial shade. Prune only to remove damaged or diseased growth. Gently place a thick layer of mulch around your plant. This placement will help you to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

14. Yulan Magnolia (Magnolia denudata)

The yulan magnolia tree has fragrant white flowers and foliage that turns bronze in fall. This deciduous magnolia grows at a medium rate to 30 to 40 feet tall and thrives in zones five through nine.

Yulan magnolias grow best in partial shade with consistently moist, well-draining soil. To keep the size and shape in check, you must prune after flowering to maintain size and shape. These magnolia trees prefer locations with shelter from strong winds and cold winter temperatures.

15. Royal Star Magnolia (Magnolia x loebneri’ Royal Star’)

The Royal Star magnolia variety features purple-black leaves and clusters of large, fragrant pinkish-white flowers in spring. This deciduous magnolia grows at a medium rate to 30 feet tall and thrives in zones five through nine.

Royal Star magnolias require full sun and consistently moist, well-draining soil to thrive. Prune after flowering to improve shape and vigor. These magnolia trees take on an almost statuesque form when mature, with branches remaining low and spreading.

16. Nigra Magnolia (Magnolia liliiflora ‘Nigra’)

‘Nigra’, also known as Magnolia liliiflora, is a variety of the evergreen lily magnolia tree with deep purple leaves. This miniature magnolia grows slowly to 10 feet tall and tolerates zones 6 through 10.

The Magnolia liliiflora thrives with partial shade and consistently moist, well-draining acid soil. Prune only for shape or to remove damaged branches, and place some layer of mulch around your plant around the base to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

17. Kay Parris Magnolia (Magnolia x veitchii ‘Kay Parris’)

The Kay Parris magnolia variety has fragrant purple-pink flowers and new foliage that emerges bronze before maturing to dark green. This deciduous magnolia grows to 20 feet tall and withstands zones six through nine.

Kay Parris magnolias prefer full sun and consistently moist, well-draining soil. Prune only after flowering to improve shape and encourage new growth. These magnolia trees provide lovely spring color and have fewer pest problems than other varieties.

18. Wilson Magnolia (Magnolia wilsonii)

The Wilson magnolia tree produces clusters of fragrant pink flowers in spring, followed by elliptic leaves that emerge bronze and mature to dark green. This deciduous magnolia grows moderately to 40 feet tall and thrives in zones six to eight.

Wilson magnolia trees require afternoon shade and consistently moist, acidic soil to thrive. Prune only after flowering to maintain size and shape. These magnolias prefer protected locations that offer shelter from wind and cold weather.

19. Oyama Magnolia (Magnolia sieboldii)

The Oyama magnolia tree features fragrant white flowers and new foliage that emerges bronze before maturing to dark green. This deciduous magnolia grows moderately to 30 feet tall and thrives in zones five through eight.

Oyama magnolias require full sun and moist, well-draining, acidic soil to thrive. Prune only after flowering to improve shape and encourage new growth. These magnolia trees grow best in protected locations that offer shelter from the wind.

20. Susan Magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana ‘Susan’)

The Susan variety of saucer magnolia features deep rose-pink flowers and glossy, ovate leaves. This deciduous magnolia grows at a medium rate to 20 to 30 feet tall and thrives in zones five through eight. Susan magnolias require full sun and consistently moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Prune only after flowering to maintain size, shape, and vigor.

These magnolias prefer protected locations that offer shelter from wind and cold weather. For the Susan magnolia trees, place some mulch around the base of your plant to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Water deeply and regularly during dry periods, especially when young. Fertilize once per year in early spring to promote healthy growth.

Conclusion

With proper pruning and care, cold hardy magnolia trees can bring years of elegance and beauty to your landscape.

• The southern magnolia features large, fragrant white flowers that bloom in summer. The flowers range from five to ten inches wide and emit a pleasant, citrusy fragrance that fills the air.
• The simple leaves of the star magnolia tree are oval-shaped and have a medium green color during spring and summer. The flowers resemble small stars that light up the landscape in early spring.
• The yulan magnolia tree has fragrant white flowers and foliage that turns bronze in fall.
• The ‘Little Gem’ evergreen magnolia thrives in zones seven through ten with consistently moist, well-draining soil and partial shade.

Planting the right magnolia for your climate and conditions will reward you with spring blooms and foliage that adds grace and charm throughout the seasons. Start planning your magnificent magnolia collection today!

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