Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily'

Waterlily Star Magnolia

Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ is a deciduous flowering tree or large shrub prized for its slightly larger, strongly fragrant, waterlily-like blooms with more numerous, stiffer tepals than the species. Flowers are typically white to very pale pink and appear on bare branches in early spring, creating a refined, showy display before the foliage emerges.

Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub
Mature Size: 8–15' W x 10–20' H
USDA Zones: 4a–8b
Form: Dense, rounded to broadly upright, often multi-stemmed with age
Light: Full sun to part shade
Soil / Water: Moist, organically rich, slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil; medium water
Bloom Time / Length: March–April; blooms for several weeks depending on weather
Wildlife: Early flowers may provide some value to early pollinating insects, though this cultivar is grown mainly for ornamental display. This is an inference based on star magnolia 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 the early bloom can be appreciated up close. Its compact habit and fuller, waterlily-like flowers make it an especially elegant choice for residential landscapes. Planting in a somewhat sheltered site can help protect buds and flowers from late frosts.

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 periods. Prune only lightly after flowering if shaping is needed, since flower buds form for the following season.

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

10-20'

Width

8-15'

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Slow

Bloom time

Early Spring, Late Winter

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Light Yellow

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Moist well-drained, Rich, Slightly Acidic

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Foundation, Specimen

Shape

Broad Upright

Bark

Smooth

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No