A Comprehensive Guide to 23 of the Best Magnolia Varieties
When it comes to magnolias, the options are endless. With hundreds of species and numerous cultivars and hybrids, choosing the best magnolia for your garden can be a daunting task. To make your selection easier, we have compiled a list of 23 of the best magnolia varieties. Each of these options offers unique characteristics, making them a valuable addition to any garden.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Magnolia
Before diving into the list of magnolia varieties, it’s crucial to consider a few factors to ensure you choose the right tree for your garden. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Hardiness Zone: Determine your USDA Hardiness Zone to select a magnolia that can thrive in your area.
- Size and Shape: Consider the size and shape of the tree to ensure it fits well in your garden space.
- Flower Color: Decide on the flower color you prefer, as magnolias come in various hues ranging from white to yellow to pink.
- Temperature Tolerance: Choose a magnolia that can withstand the temperature extremes in your region.
With these factors in mind, let’s explore 23 of the best magnolia varieties that you can consider for your garden.
1. Anise
The Willow-leafed or anise magnolia, native to Japan, is a stunning option for Zones 6 to 9. Known for its large blossoms with elegant white tepals and bright copper orange foliage, the Anise magnolia offers a striking early-season display. Consider hybrid options like ‘Wada’s Memory’ for a worthwhile addition to your garden.
2. Ann
A cross between M. liliiflora ‘Nigra’ and M. stellata ‘Rosea,’ ‘Ann’ is a compact shrub-like tree ideal for smaller spaces. With huge reddish-purple blossoms and late maturation, ‘Ann’ is a valuable addition to gardens in Zones 4 to 7.
3. Ashe’s
Endemic to Florida’s wetlands, Ashe’s magnolia is a visually appealing option with heavily-scented white blossoms and fuchsia centers. Planting Ashe’s magnolia not only adds elegance to your garden but also contributes to preserving an endangered species.
4. Banana Shrub
With flowers that resemble bananas and a fragrant scent of ripe cantaloupe, the Banana shrub is a unique magnolia variety for Zones 7 to 10. Consider cultivars like ‘Stellar Ruby’ for pink blossoms to add variety to your garden.
5. Betty
‘Betty’ is a compact magnolia with vibrant reddish-purple and white blossoms. Part of the Little Girl series, ‘Betty’ blooms late in the year, making it less prone to frost damage in Zones 4 to 8.
6. Bigleaf
Known for its large leaves and flowers, the Bigleaf magnolia boasts elegant ivory blossoms with purple-red splotches. Consider cultivars like ‘Purple Spotted’ or ‘Palmberg’ for unique flower variations in Zones 5 to 8.
7. Butterflies
Hybrid ‘Butterflies,’ a cross between M. acuminata and M. denudata, offers cup-shaped yellow flowers in a pyramidal growth habit. Perfect for Zones 5 to 9, ‘Butterflies’ adds a touch of magic to any garden.
8. Cucumber
If you’re in a colder region, consider the Cucumber magnolia for a towering tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall. With blue-hued buds and creamy yellow flowers, the Cucumber magnolia flourishes in Zones 3 and higher.
9. Felix
With bright magenta foot-wide blossoms, ‘Felix’ is a standout magnolia hybrid for Zones 5 to 9. Bred by Mark Jury, ‘Felix’ offers a sturdy tree with abundant fragrant flowers.
10. Galaxy
The Galaxy hybrid cultivar features profusion of purplish-pink flowers that make for stunning cut flower displays. Ideal for Zones 5 to 9, ‘Galaxy’ boasts foot-wide blossoms with 12 petals for a striking visual impact.
11. Genie
A petite hybrid with deep burgundy flowers, ‘Genie’ blooms reliably in Zones 5 to 9. Enjoy up to seven-inch blossoms on this compact magnolia for a captivating garden display.
12. Lily
The Lily magnolia native to China offers pink, purple, and white goblet-shaped blossoms with a heavenly citrus scent. Ideal for Zones 5 to 8, the Lily magnolia is perfect for containers or small gardens.
13. Loebner
The Loebner magnolia is a mini tree with pink, purple, and white flowers and a fragrant scent. Bred by Karl Sax, ‘Loebner’ cultivars like ‘Merrill’ offer compact trees with intensely fragrant blossoms for Zones 5 to 9.
14. Jane
A popular hybrid cultivar, ‘Jane’ is hardy and vigorous with purple-red and white blossoms. Perfect for Zones 4 to 8, ‘Jane’ blooms late in the season for extended garden beauty.
15. Kobus
Kobus magnolia is a large shrub or small tree known for its snow-like profusion of small flowers. Hardy in Zones 5 to 8, ‘Kobus’ adds a touch of elegance to any garden.
16. Saucer
Saucer magnolias are highly sought-after hybrids with massive plate-sized blossoms in shades of white, pink, and purple. ‘Saucer’ species are cold hardy, thriving in Zones 4 to 8.
17. Sargentiana
Majestic and striking, Sargentiana magnolias are covered in pink or white blossoms in the spring. ‘Caerhays Belle’ is a beautiful hybrid for Zones 6 to 9, adding a touch of elegance to any garden.
18. Southern
Southern magnolias are iconic trees with large white or cream blossoms native to the southern US. Ideal for Zones 6 and higher, ‘Bracken’s Brown Beauty’ and ‘Little Gem’ offer varying sizes for diverse garden spaces.
Stay Tuned for Part 2…
