ExploreTree

Star Magnolia

Magnolia stellata

The Star Magnolia is a small tree with star-like flowers that bloom in early spring. Its delicate blooms are a joy to see!

Habitat: Gardens and parks

Appearance

The Star Magnolia has stunning, star-shaped flowers with numerous slender white or pink petals that bloom abundantly in early spring. Its smooth, grey bark and often multi-stemmed form create an elegant, shrub-like tree appearance.

KingdomPlantaePhylumTracheophytaClassMagnoliopsidaOrderMagnolialesFamilyMagnoliaceaeGenusMagnolia

Star Magnolia

Interesting facts

Its unique star-shaped blooms inspired its common name and botanical identity.

Magnolias are one of the oldest flowering plants, existing even with dinosaurs!

Unlike most trees, its flowers open before any leaves even begin to sprout!

You can tell spring is near when the Star Magnolia's fuzzy flower buds start to swell!

Special abilities

Star Magnolia can flower before its leaves appear, using sunshine and attracting early pollinators when few other plants bloom.

Star Magnolia has tough flowers that resist damage, a trait from its ancestors pollinated by clumsy beetles millions of years ago.

Star Magnolia can release a sweet, lemony scent to attract beetles and other insects, ensuring its beautiful flowers get pollinated.

Measurements & details

Height: 4.5-6 m
Canopy Spread: 3-5 m
Is Edible: No
Trunk Diameter: 10-20 cm
Lifespan: 50-80 years
Fruit Type: Follicle
Growth Rate: Medium
Leaf Type: Deciduous

Ecological connections

pollinates

Japanese beetle

Popillia japonica

Beetles are ancient pollinators for magnolias.

shelters

American robin

Turdus migratorius

Birds nest in its branches and enjoy its shade.

Traits

Deciduous

Discover the magic of plants that shed all their leaves during a particular season, often putting on a spectacular show of fall colors first. They get ready for a fresh start!

Ornamental

These lovely plants are grown simply because they are so beautiful to look at, adding splashes of color and interesting shapes to any garden or landscape.

Spring Blooming

Celebrate the arrival of warmer weather with these cheerful plants that burst into beautiful flowers as spring awakens the world.

Fragrant Flower

Discover flowers that release delightful scents into the air, enchanting our senses and attracting helpful insects. Take a moment to enjoy their sweet perfume!