
Common Name: Waterlily Star Magnolia
Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ is a deciduous flowering tree or large shrub prized for its slightly larger, strongly fragrant, waterlily-like blooms with more numerous, stiffer tepals than the species. Flowers are typically white to very pale pink and appear on bare branches in early spring, creating a refined, showy display before the foliage emerges. Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub Mature Size: 8–15' W x 10–20' H USDA Zones: 4a–8b Form: Dense, rounded to broadly upright, often multi-stemmed with age Light: Full sun to part shade Soil / Water: Moist, organically rich, slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil; medium water Bloom Time / Length: March–April; blooms for several weeks depending on weather Wildlife: Early flowers may provide some value to early pollinating insects, though this cultivar is grown mainly for ornamental display. This is an inference based on star magnolia bloom timing rather than a cultivar-specific wildlife note. Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen near entries, patios, and windows, or in foundation beds and smaller gardens where the early bloom can be appreciated up close. Its compact habit and fuller, waterlily-like flowers make it an especially elegant choice for residential landscapes. Planting in a somewhat sheltered site can help protect buds and flowers from late frosts. Care: Plant in fertile, well-drained soil and mulch to keep the root zone cool and evenly moist. Water regularly while establishing and during dry periods. Prune only lightly after flowering if shaping is needed, since flower buds form for the following season.
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree |
| Width: | 8-15' |
| Height: | 10-20' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Slow |
| Zone: | 4 - 9 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Bees |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Late Winter, Early Spring |
| Bark Type: | Smooth |
| Landscape/Use: | Specimen, Foundation, Accent Plant |
| Shape: | Broad Upright |
| Soil Type | Rich, Moist well-drained, Slightly Acidic |
| Flower Color: | White |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Light Yellow |