Magnolia x soulangiana 'Rustica Rubra'

Saucer Magnolia

Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Rustica Rubra’ is a deciduous flowering tree or large shrub prized for its large, goblet-shaped blooms that are rosy pink to reddish purple on the outside and pale pink to white inside. It flowers in early to mid-spring on bare branches before the leaves emerge, creating the classic bicolored saucer magnolia display. Older references describe it as similar to ‘Lennei’ but a bit earlier and slightly redder in tone.

Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub
Mature Size: 15–25' W x 20–30' H
USDA Zones: 5a–8b
Form: Broadly upright to rounded, often multi-stemmed with age
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil / Water: Moist, organically rich, slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil; moderate water, especially during establishment
Bloom Time / Length: Early to mid-spring; flowers before leaf emergence and usually bloom for several weeks, depending on weather
Wildlife: Early flowers can support pollinating insects, especially beetle pollinators typical of magnolias, though this cultivar is grown mainly for ornamental display. This is partly an inference from magnolia flower ecology.

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen, lawn tree, patio accent, or focal point in mixed borders and residential landscapes. Its rich pink-purple outer tepals and pale interior give it strong contrast, and the flowers are notably fuller and more colorful than the straight species type commonly seen in older landscapes. Like many saucer magnolias, it is most effective where the spring bloom can be seen up close.

Care: Plant in fertile, well-drained soil and avoid hot, dry, exposed sites. Mulch to keep roots cool and evenly moist, water regularly while establishing, and prune only lightly after flowering if shaping is needed. A sheltered location can help reduce damage to flowers from late frosts and wind

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-30'

Width

15-25'

Hardiness zones

5–8

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Spring, Mid Spring

Flower color

Pink

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Green

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich, Slightly Acidic

Landscape use

Provide Shade, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright, Oval

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No