Magnolia stellata 'Royal Star'

Star Magnolia

Magnolia stellata ‘Royal Star’ is a deciduous flowering tree or large shrub valued for its fragrant, pure white, star-shaped flowers that open on bare branches in late winter to early spring. The blooms are typically fuller and showier than the species, giving it a especially crisp, elegant spring display. It usually develops as a compact, rounded to broadly oval plant and works well where a smaller ornamental magnolia is needed.

Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub
Mature Size: 10–15' W x 10–15' H
USDA Zones: 4a–9b
Form: Rounded to broadly oval, often multi-stemmed, dense and compact with age
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil / Water: Moist, organically rich, slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil; regular water during establishment, then moderate moisture
Bloom Time / Length: Late winter to early spring; blooms for several weeks depending on weather
Wildlife: Early flowers may offer some value to early pollinating insects, though this plant is grown mainly for ornamental display. This is an inference based on 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 its early bloom can be appreciated up close. Its compact size and refined habit make it easier to place than larger magnolias, and it is often used as a multi-trunked accent or small lawn tree. Flowers can be damaged by late frosts, so a somewhat protected site is helpful.

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 spells. Avoid hot, exposed, windy sites when possible, and prune only lightly after flowering if shaping is needed. 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

10-15''

Width

10-15'

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Sun

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Early Spring, Late Winter

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich, Slightly Acidic

Landscape use

Foundation

Shape

Multi Stem, Oval/Rounded

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No