24 Types of Magnolia Trees and Shrubs

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Magnolia trees are timeless beauties, celebrated for their large, fragrant flowers and lush foliage. Ranging from compact shrubs to towering trees, they thrive in diverse climates, from temperate to subtropical. Their blooms, in shades of white, pink, purple, or yellow, signal spring or summer, making them a garden focal point.

These trees are more than ornamental; they’re packed with historical and ecological significance. Dating back 95 million years, magnolias evolved before bees, relying on beetles for pollination. Their resilience and adaptability make them a favorite for landscapes, from urban yards to sprawling estates.

Magnolias offer versatility in form and function. Evergreen types provide year-round greenery, while deciduous varieties dazzle with seasonal color changes. Their flowers, often citrus-scented, attract pollinators, and some species produce striking seed cones, adding fall interest.

Care is straightforward but specific. They prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil and benefit from mulch to retain moisture. Planting in sheltered spots protects early blooms from frost, ensuring vibrant displays. Regular watering during establishment promotes healthy growth.

Magnolia Trees

Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

  • A quintessential evergreen magnolia native to the southeastern U.S., known for its massive, creamy white, lemon-scented flowers (8–12 inches wide) and glossy, dark green leaves with rusty-brown undersides. It grows 60–80 feet tall and 30–50 feet wide, making it a stately shade tree.
  • Flowers bloom in late spring to early summer, sometimes reblooming sporadically. The tree produces cone-like fruits with bright red seeds in fall. Cultivars like ‘Little Gem’ (20–25 feet) and ‘Teddy Bear’ (20 feet) are compact for smaller yards.
  • Thrives in USDA Zones 6–10 in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.0–6.5) but tolerates clay. Plant in a spacious, protected site to avoid root disturbance, as its shallow roots are sensitive. Minimal pruning is needed; prune after flowering to shape. Water regularly for the first year.
  • Its evergreen foliage and large blooms make it a focal point year-round. The flowers are often used in wreaths, and the tree is deer-resistant. It’s the state flower of Mississippi and Louisiana, symbolizing Southern charm.

Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia x soulangeana)

  • A deciduous hybrid of M. liliiflora and M. denudata, this small tree or large shrub (15–25 feet tall, 15–20 feet wide) is prized for its goblet-shaped, pink-to-purple flowers with white interiors, blooming in early spring before leaves emerge.
  • Flowers (3–12 inches wide) vary by cultivar, with popular ones like ‘Alexandrina’ (deep purple-pink) and ‘Lennei’ (rosy-pink). Produces reddish fruits in fall. Leaves are medium green, turning yellow before dropping.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 4–9 in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Plant in a sheltered spot to protect early blooms from frost. Mulch to retain moisture and irrigate during dry spells. Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
  • Its early, showy blooms make it a spring standout, perfect for pairing with other early-flowering trees like redbuds. The fuzzy buds add winter interest. It’s a favorite for small landscapes due to its manageable size.

Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata)

  • A compact, deciduous shrub or small tree (10–20 feet tall, 10–15 feet wide) native to Japan, known for its star-shaped, white (sometimes pink-tinged) flowers (3–5 inches wide) that bloom in late winter to early spring.
  • Features 12–40 strap-like tepals per flower, creating a starburst effect. Cultivars like ‘Royal Star’ (pure white) and ‘Centennial Blush’ (pale pink) are popular. Leaves are small, dark green, turning yellow in fall.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9, it prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained, acidic soil. Plant in a sheltered location to protect buds from frost. Water consistently in the first year; mulch to retain moisture. Minimal pruning is needed post-bloom.
  • One of the earliest bloomers, it heralds spring before most trees. Its compact size and frost-tolerant cultivars like ‘Leonard Messel’ make it ideal for small gardens or containers.

Lily Magnolia (Magnolia liliiflora)

  • A deciduous shrub or small tree (8–12 feet tall and wide) native to China, with tulip-shaped, purple-pink flowers (3–6 inches) that bloom in mid to late spring, often reblooming in summer.
  • Flowers have a white interior and citrusy scent. Cultivars like ‘Nigra’ (deep purple) and ‘O’Neill’ (purple-pink) are vibrant. Leaves are medium green, 4–8 inches long.
  • Thrives in USDA Zones 5–8 in full sun to part shade. Needs well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Water regularly during establishment; mulch to conserve moisture. Prune lightly after flowering. Protect from harsh winds.
  • Its shrubby form and compact size make it perfect for borders, containers, or small yards. The upright flowers add a dramatic flair.

Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana)

  • A semi-evergreen to deciduous tree (15–20 feet tall and wide in the North, up to 60 feet in the South) native to the eastern U.S., with creamy white, lemon-scented flowers (2–3 inches) blooming in spring to summer.
  • Leaves are dark green with silvery undersides, creating a shimmering effect. Produces red-seeded cones in fall. Cultivar ‘Moonglow’ is cold-hardy.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 5–10 in full sun to part shade. Thrives in moist to wet, acidic soil, tolerating boggy sites. Water regularly; mulch to retain moisture. Minimal pruning needed post-bloom.
  • Unlike most magnolias, it tolerates wet soils, making it ideal for rain gardens or low-lying areas. Its silvery leaves add year-round interest.

Bigleaf Magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla)

  • A deciduous tree (30–40 feet tall, 20–30 feet wide) native to the southeastern U.S., with massive leaves (12–32 inches long) and huge, fragrant white flowers (8–12 inches) blooming in late spring.
  • Flowers have purple bases; leaves are green with silvery undersides. Produces cone-like fruits with red seeds. Slow to bloom, often taking 12–15 years.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8, it prefers full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained, organic-rich soil. Protect from wind to prevent leaf damage. Water consistently; mulch heavily. Prune minimally after flowering.
  • Its enormous leaves give a tropical, prehistoric look, ideal for bold landscapes. The slow blooming adds anticipation for dedicated gardeners.

Cucumber Tree (Magnolia acuminata)

  • A large, deciduous tree (50–80 feet tall, 30–50 feet wide) native to eastern North America, with small, yellow-green flowers (2–3 inches) in late spring and cucumber-shaped, rosy fruits.
  • Leaves are dark green, 6–10 inches long, turning yellow in fall. Flowers are less showy than other magnolias but attract pollinators. Cultivar ‘Elizabeth’ has primrose-yellow blooms.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 4–8 in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Water regularly during establishment. Prune after flowering to shape.
  • Its height and shade make it a great canopy tree. The fruit’s unique shape adds fall interest, and it’s one of the hardiest magnolias.

Loebner Magnolia (Magnolia x loebneri)

  • A deciduous hybrid of M. kobus and M. stellata, growing 20–30 feet tall and wide, with star-shaped, fragrant flowers (4–6 inches) in late winter to early spring.
  • Flowers are white to pink, with cultivars like ‘Merrill’ (white) and ‘Ballerina’ (blush pink). Leaves are medium green, turning yellow in fall. Blooms profusely even when young.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9, it prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained, acidic soil. Shelter from frost to protect early blooms. Water and mulch regularly. Prune post-bloom.
  • Its abundant, delicate blooms and compact size make it ideal for small gardens or as a hedge. It’s a reliable bloomer in cold climates.

Yulan Magnolia (Magnolia denudata)

  • A deciduous tree (30–40 feet tall, 20–30 feet wide) native to China, with pure white, cup-shaped, fragrant flowers (4–6 inches) blooming in early spring before leaves.
  • Flowers have 9–12 tepals; leaves are medium green, turning yellow in fall. Often used as a parent for hybrids like saucer magnolia. Produces small, reddish fruits.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 6–9 in full sun to part shade. Needs moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Protect from late frosts. Water regularly; mulch to retain moisture. Prune after flowering.
  • Revered in Chinese culture as a symbol of purity, it’s often planted near temples. Its elegant blooms are a spring highlight.

Anise Magnolia (Magnolia salicifolia)

  • A deciduous tree (20–30 feet tall, 15–20 feet wide) native to Japan, with willow-like leaves and white, star-shaped, lemon-scented flowers (3–4 inches) in early spring.
  • Leaves are narrow, turning golden yellow in fall. Flowers bloom before leaves, with a spicy fragrance. Bark is smooth and silvery, adding winter interest.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, it prefers full sun to part shade and well-drained, acidic soil. Shelter from wind and frost. Water consistently; mulch to protect roots. Prune post-bloom.
  • Its slender leaves and fragrant blooms give a delicate, airy look. The silvery bark enhances winter landscapes.

Champaca Magnolia (Magnolia champaca)

  • An evergreen tree (30–50 feet tall and wide) native to Southeast Asia, with creamy white to yellow-orange, highly fragrant flowers (2–3 inches) blooming year-round, especially spring to summer.
  • Flowers form along branches, not just at tips, and are used in perfumes. Leaves are glossy, dark green. Produces small, fuzzy fruits.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 10–12 in full sun to part shade. Needs moist, well-drained, acidic soil and high humidity. Water regularly; mulch heavily. Prune lightly after flowering.
  • Its intense fragrance and tropical vibe make it a standout for warm climates. It’s a favorite in subtropical gardens and for perfume production.

Jane Magnolia (Magnolia ‘Jane’)

  • A deciduous shrub or small tree (10–15 feet tall, 6–10 feet wide) from the Little Girl series (M. liliiflora x M. stellata), with tulip-shaped, pink-purple flowers (4–6 inches) in spring, often reblooming in summer.
  • Flowers are reddish-purple outside, white inside, with a light fragrance. Leaves are dark green, turning yellow-bronze in fall. Compact and slow-growing.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, it prefers full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Shelter from late frosts. Water and mulch regularly. Prune after flowering.
  • Its compact size, cold hardiness, and reblooming habit make it ideal for small yards or containers. It’s pest- and disease-resistant.

Kobus Magnolia (Magnolia kobus)

  • A deciduous tree (25–40 feet tall, 20–30 feet wide) native to Japan, known for its delicate, white, slightly fragrant flowers (3–4 inches) that bloom in early spring before leaves emerge.
  • Flowers have 6–9 tepals, creating a star-like effect. Leaves are dark green, turning yellow in fall. Produces small, reddish fruits. Cultivar ‘Borealis’ is extra cold-hardy.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, it thrives in full sun to part shade with moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5). Shelter from late frosts to protect early blooms. Water regularly during establishment; mulch to retain moisture. Prune lightly after flowering to shape.
  • Its cold hardiness and elegant, understated blooms make it ideal for northern gardens. The tree’s graceful form adds structure to winter landscapes, and it blooms reliably even when young.

Oyama Magnolia (Magnolia sieboldii)

  • A deciduous shrub or small tree (10–20 feet tall and wide) native to East Asia, with nodding, cup-shaped, white flowers (3–4 inches) featuring crimson stamens, blooming in late spring to early summer.
  • Flowers are sweetly fragrant, appearing after leaves for frost resistance. Leaves are medium green, turning yellow in fall. Produces pinkish fruits with red seeds. Cultivar ‘Colossus’ has larger blooms.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 6–9 in part shade to full sun. Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Mulch to keep roots cool and moist; water consistently. Prune after flowering. Protect from hot afternoon sun in warmer zones.
  • Its late bloom time avoids frost damage, and the nodding flowers are best viewed from below, making it perfect for slopes or elevated planters. The vibrant stamens add a pop of color.

Umbrella Magnolia (Magnolia tripetala)

  • A deciduous tree (15–30 feet tall and wide) native to the eastern U.S., with large, creamy white flowers (6–10 inches) and enormous leaves (12–24 inches long) blooming in late spring.
  • Flowers have a slightly musky scent and 6–9 tepals. Leaves form an umbrella-like canopy, turning yellow in fall. Produces cone-like, pinkish fruits. Best for naturalistic settings.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8, it prefers part shade to full sun and moist, rich, well-drained soil. Protect from wind to prevent leaf tearing. Water regularly; mulch heavily. Minimal pruning needed post-bloom.
  • Its bold foliage and tropical appearance make it a standout in shaded or woodland gardens. The large leaves create a dramatic, prehistoric vibe.

Fraser Magnolia (Magnolia fraseri)

  • A deciduous tree (30–50 feet tall, 20–30 feet wide) native to the southeastern U.S., with fragrant, white flowers (8–10 inches) and large, ear-shaped leaves blooming in late spring.
  • Flowers have 6–9 tepals; leaves (10–20 inches) are broadest at the base, turning yellow in fall. Produces red-seeded cones. Fast-growing but shorter-lived than other magnolias.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 5–9 in full sun to part shade. Needs moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Water consistently; mulch to protect shallow roots. Prune after flowering to control size.
  • Its rapid growth and large blooms make it ideal for quick-impact landscapes. The ear-shaped leaves add architectural interest, perfect for native plant gardens.

Butterflies Magnolia (Magnolia ‘Butterflies’)

  • A deciduous hybrid (M. acuminata x M. denudata), growing 15–20 feet tall and wide, with vibrant yellow, tulip-shaped flowers (4–5 inches) blooming in early spring before leaves.
  • Flowers are upright, with a slight fragrance. Leaves are dark green, turning bronze-yellow in fall. Compact and upright, ideal for small spaces. One of the best yellow-flowered magnolias.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 4–9, it prefers full sun for best bloom and moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Shelter from frost to protect buds. Water regularly; mulch to retain moisture. Prune post-bloom.
  • Its rare, vivid yellow flowers stand out in spring, offering a cheerful alternative to white or pink magnolias. The compact size suits urban gardens or patios.

Galaxy Magnolia (Magnolia ‘Galaxy’)

  • A deciduous hybrid (M. liliiflora x M. sprengeri), growing 20–30 feet tall and 15–20 feet wide, with large, deep pink to purple flowers (8–10 inches) blooming in mid-spring.
  • Flowers are upright, with a rich fragrance. Leaves are dark green, turning yellow-bronze in fall. Upright, narrow form makes it ideal for smaller spaces.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 5–9 in full sun to part shade. Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Water consistently; mulch to protect roots. Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
  • Its later bloom time reduces frost risk, and the narrow growth habit fits tight spaces like urban yards or street plantings. The bold flowers are a spring showstopper.

Purple Breeze Magnolia (Magnolia sprengeri ‘Diva’)

  • A deciduous tree (30–40 feet tall, 20–30 feet wide) native to China, with large, rosy-purple, cup-shaped flowers (6–8 inches) blooming in early spring before leaves.
  • Flowers have a light fragrance and 12–18 tepals. Leaves are medium green, turning yellow in fall. Produces small, reddish fruits. Known for its vivid color.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 5–8, it prefers full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Protect from late frosts. Water regularly; mulch heavily. Prune after flowering.
  • Its intense purple blooms are among the most striking in the genus, making it a focal point. The tree’s open structure adds elegance to landscapes.

Ann Magnolia (Magnolia ‘Ann’)

  • A deciduous shrub or small tree (8–10 feet tall and wide) from the Little Girl series (M. liliiflora x M. stellata), with deep purple-pink, tulip-shaped flowers (4–6 inches) in mid to late spring.
  • Flowers are slightly fragrant, blooming later to avoid frost. Leaves are dark green, turning yellow in fall. Compact and bushy, perfect for borders.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 4–8 in full sun to part shade. Needs moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Water consistently; mulch to retain moisture. Prune post-bloom to shape.
  • Its small size and late blooming make it ideal for cold climates and small gardens. It’s low-maintenance and disease-resistant, great for beginners.

Ashe Magnolia (Magnolia ashei)

  • A deciduous shrub or small tree (10–20 feet tall and wide) native to Florida, with huge, fragrant, white flowers (8–12 inches) and large leaves (12–24 inches) blooming in late spring.
  • Flowers have purple-tinged bases; leaves are green with silvery undersides, turning yellow in fall. Produces red-seeded cones. Grows faster than bigleaf magnolia.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 6–9, it prefers part shade to full sun and moist, rich, well-drained soil. Protect from wind. Water regularly; mulch heavily. Prune minimally after flowering.
  • Its tropical look and compact size make it a rare gem for warm climates. It blooms younger than many large-leaf magnolias, often within 5–7 years.

Yellow Bird Magnolia (Magnolia ‘Yellow Bird’)

  • A deciduous hybrid (M. acuminata x M. brooklynensis), growing 30–40 feet tall and 20–30 feet wide, with bright yellow, upright flowers (4–6 inches) blooming in mid spring as leaves emerge.
  • Flowers are fragrant, with a canary-yellow hue. Leaves are dark green, turning yellow in fall. Upright, conical shape suits formal gardens.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, it prefers full sun for best color and moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Water regularly; mulch to protect roots. Prune after flowering to shape.
  • Its consistent yellow blooms and tall, tidy form make it a standout for larger yards. It’s more frost-tolerant than other yellow magnolias.

Wilson Magnolia (Magnolia wilsonii)

  • A deciduous shrub or small tree (15–25 feet tall and wide) native to China, with nodding, white, saucer-shaped flowers (3–4 inches) featuring red stamens, blooming in late spring to early summer.
  • Flowers are fragrant, hanging downward for a unique display. Leaves are medium green, turning yellow in fall. Produces pinkish fruits.
  • Grows in USDA Zones 6–9 in part shade to full sun. Prefers moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Mulch to keep roots cool; water consistently. Prune after flowering.
  • Its downward-facing flowers are best viewed from below, ideal for raised beds or slopes. The red stamens add subtle drama, and it thrives in shadier spots.

Susan Magnolia (Magnolia ‘Susan’)

  • A deciduous shrub or small tree (8–12 feet tall and wide) from the Little Girl series (M. liliiflora x M. stellata), with deep purple-pink, chalice-shaped flowers (4–6 inches) in mid to late spring, often reblooming.
  • Flowers are fragrant, with twisted tepals creating a dynamic look. Leaves are dark green, turning yellow in fall. Compact and upright, great for small spaces.
  • Hardy in USDA Zones 4–8, it prefers full sun to part shade and moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Protect from late frosts. Water regularly; mulch to retain moisture. Prune post-bloom.
  • Its reblooming habit and small size make it perfect for containers, borders, or urban gardens. The twisted petals add a playful charm, and it’s pest-resistant.

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