Magnolia x loebneri Ballerina

Ballerina Magnolia

Magnolia × loebneri ‘Ballerina’ is a deciduous flowering tree or large shrub prized for its fragrant, star-like white flowers, each with many narrow tepals lightly blushed pink at the base. Blooming before the foliage in early spring, it offers a soft, elegant display and typically develops a rounded, balanced habit well suited to smaller landscapes. Missouri Botanical Garden notes this cultivar as a cross of Magnolia × loebneri ‘Spring Snow’ × M. stellata ‘Water Lily.’ 

Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub. 

Mature Size: 15–20' W x 15–20' H. 

USDA Zones: 4–8. 

Form: Rounded, balanced, sometimes grown as a multi-stemmed specimen. 

Light: Full sun to part shade. 

Soil / Water: Moist, organically rich, well-drained soil; regular moisture during establishment and in dry periods. 

Bloom Time / Length: Early to mid-spring, often late March into April depending on climate; blooms before leaf emergence. 

Wildlife: Early flowers may offer some value to early pollinating insects, though this cultivar is grown mainly for ornamental display. This is an inference based on bloom timing and magnolia flower ecology. 

Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen, patio tree, lawn accent, or focal point near entries and windows where the fragrant spring bloom can be appreciated up close. Its compact rounded habit and refined white flowers make it a strong choice for residential gardens where larger magnolias would be too broad. 

Care: Plant in fertile, well-drained soil and mulch to keep roots cool and evenly moist. Water regularly while establishing, avoid prolonged drought, and prune only lightly after flowering if shaping is needed. A somewhat sheltered site can help protect flowers from late frost and wind. 

Plant type

Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

15'

Width

15-20'

Hardiness zones

5–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Partial Shade

Growth rate

Fast

Bloom time

Early Spring, Mid Spring

Flower color

White

Leaf color

Green

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees

Soil

Clay, Moist well-drained, Rich, Slightly Acidic

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Multi Stem, Oval, Rounded

Fragrant

Yes

Deer resistant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No