Magnolia denudata

Lilytree

Magnolia denudata (Yulan Magnolia / Lily Tree) is a deciduous flowering tree with a broad, rounded to spreading habit, featuring medium green leaves and large, fragrant, creamy white to ivory goblet-shaped flowers that open before the foliage in late winter to early spring. Blooms are typically 5–6" across with 9–12 tepals, sometimes showing a faint pink blush at the base, and give the tree a refined, elegant spring display.

Type: Tree (Deciduous)
Mature Size: 30–40' W × 30–40' H
USDA Zones: 6a–9b
Form: Broad, rounded to spreading

Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil / Water: Rich, moist, well-drained soils; moderate water, prefers consistent moisture
Bloom Time / Length: Late winter to early spring; moderate (about 2–3 weeks)

Wildlife: Bees

Features & Landscape Uses:
Excellent as a specimen tree, focal point, or flowering accent in larger beds and lawns. Its fragrant white flowers, elegant branching, and early bloom make it one of the classic magnolias for spring display.

Care:
Plant in a protected site with fertile, well-drained soil. Water regularly during establishment, mulch to keep roots cool and evenly moist, and prune only if needed after flowering. Avoid poorly drained or drought-prone sites. 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

30-40'

Width

30-40'

Hardiness zones

6–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Clay, Moist well-drained, Rich

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Provide Shade, Specimen

Shape

Broad, Rounded, Spreading

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No