Magnolia x soulangiana

Saucer Magnolia

Magnolia × soulangeana is a deciduous flowering tree or large shrub, commonly called saucer magnolia, prized for its large goblet- to cup-shaped fragrant blooms in shades of white, pink, and purple that open before the leaves in early spring. It is a hybrid of Magnolia denudata × M. liliiflora and is often grown with multiple trunks or low branching, giving it a broad, rounded habit.

Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub
Mature Size: 20–30' W x 20–30' H
USDA Zones: 4a–9b
Form: Rounded, broad-spreading, often multi-stemmed or low-branched
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil / Water: Moist, organically rich, acidic to neutral, well-drained soil; moderate water, especially during establishment
Bloom Time / Length: Early spring; flowers open before leaf emergence and may be damaged by late frosts
Wildlife: Flowers support early pollinating insects, especially beetle pollinators; this plant is grown mainly for ornamental display.

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen, lawn tree, patio accent, or focal point in mixed borders and residential landscapes. Its huge early blooms are the main attraction, while smooth gray bark, large leaves, and yellow fall color add secondary interest. Because it flowers before leaf-out, blooms are more vulnerable to spring freezes than later-blooming magnolias.

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 protect flowers from late frost and wind damage.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-30'

Width

20-30'

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Spring

Flower color

Pink, White

Leaf color

Dark Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich, Slightly Acidic

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Foundation, Specimen

Shape

Multi Stem, Oval, Spreading

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No