Shrub/Tree Magnolia stellata 'Centennial' [Centennial Star Magnolia] 'Centennial' is an excellent, vigorous Magnolia stellata cultivar with large (5.5" across), pink-blushed white flowers with numerous tepals. This plant was released by the Arnold Arboretum of Harvard University in 1972 to commemorate its 100th anniversary. Handsome specimen at all seasons. Needs at least some protection from strong wind in Zones 4 and 5. Somewhat prone to breakage in severe ice storms. Early blooming flowers often destroyed by late spring frosts.
Tree Magnolia stellata 'Royal Star' [Royal Star Magnolia] Magnolia stellata 'Royal Star' is a small flowering tree that has a more rounded habit than the straight M. stellata, with its flower buds pink that open to 12-18 white tepals. Flowers are fragrant and reach 3 to 4" in diameter. Flowers appear early spring, but can be damaged by spring frosts. Needs protection from strong winds, as it has been known to be weak-branched.
Shrub/Tree Magnolia × 'Susan' [Susan Magnolia] The Susan Magnolia is a shrubby magnolia that produces long, slender, reddish purple buds openning to beautiful, large reddish purple flowers. 5" slightly twisted flowers are erect and have 6 tepals . Flowes later than Magnolia stellata in Spring, but can also flower sporadically throughout the Summer. Summer flowers are of lighter color due to the heat. Part of the Little Girls Hybrid Series.
Tree Indiana Native Magnolia tripetala [Umbrella Magnolia] Full sun or light partial shade. Tropical appearance. Flowers are creamy white with an unpleasant smell. The cone-like rosy red fruit matures in September-October. Endangered in Indiana. Large leaves can be injured by hail or wind. Perhaps too coarse for most landscape situations.
Shrub/Tree Magnolia virginiana [Sweetbay Magnolia] Nice flower fragrance, but never overwhelming. Does well in wet soils, unlike other magnolias. Requires acid soil, some moisture, and tolerates some shade. Chlorosis can sometimes be a problem, especially prevalent on alkaline soils.
Tree Magnolia virginiana 'Northern Belle' [Northern Belle Sweetbay Magnolia] The most cold-hardy evergreen magnolia. Large white blossoms that open with the scent of vanilla. This is great around woodlands and near water, where it still grows in very wet soil. Can take full sun or partial shade. Pests and diseases are almost never a problem and has some resistance to drought.
