Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'

Little Gem Southern Magnolia

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’ is a compact evergreen flowering tree prized for its glossy dark green leaves, warm brown felted leaf undersides, and large, creamy white, lemony-fragrant blooms. Compared with the species, it stays much narrower and more manageable, making it a strong choice for smaller landscapes, screening, and vertical accents. 

Type: Evergreen tree
Mature Size: 7–10' W x 15–20' H
USDA Zones: 7a–9b
Form: Dense, upright, narrow pyramidal to oval
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil / Water: Moist, organically rich, acidic to neutral, well-drained soil; medium water once established
Bloom Time / Length: Late spring into summer, often with scattered repeat blooms afterward
Wildlife: Fruit and seeds can attract birds. 

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen, small shade tree, privacy screen, foundation accent, or patio-side evergreen where a tall but narrow plant is needed. The foliage provides year-round structure, and the fragrant flowers add strong seasonal interest. It also tolerates urban conditions better than many broadleaf evergreens, though it may suffer in harsh winters or poorly drained soils. 

Care: Plant in a sheltered site in colder parts of its range. Mulch the root zone to keep soil cool and evenly moist. Water regularly during establishment, then during prolonged dry spells. Prune lightly after flowering only as needed to maintain shape. Avoid extreme drought, waterlogged soils, and exposed windy sites. 

Plant type

Evergreen Tree

Height

15-20'

Width

7-10'

Hardiness zones

6–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Early Summer, Late Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Dark Green

Attracts

Bees, Birds, Butterflies

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich, Slightly Acidic

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Corner Accent, Specimen

Shape

Dense, Narrowly Oval, Pyramidal, Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No