How to Care for a White Star Magnolia Tree
Originally from the highlands of the Japanese island of Honshu, the Star Magnolia--Magnolia stellata--may be grown as a dense, large shrub or pruned to retain the shape of a small tree. Famous for its breathtaking cloud of pure white three to four inch flowers that appear in early spring, the Star Magnolia is hardy in Zones 4 to 9 as shown on a United States Hardiness Zone Map. Contact your county extension to determine which zone you live in.
Star Magnolia is the type of magnolia that blooms even before the leaves on it do, adding early dramatic color to the landscape.
The Star Magnolia presents a heavy, silvery gray barked main trunk with shiny chocolate brown bark distinguishing the tender young branches. The bark coloration and attractive shape provide attractive winter interest. Dark green, waxy summer foliage turns golden-bronze in autumn.
The hardy Star magnolia can easily be planted as a single specimen or a mass foundation planting.
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Instructions
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Caring For Star Magnolia Trees
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Choose a planting location that affords generous sunlight. The Star Magnolia produces a wealth of glorious white flowers when planted in full sunshine. Star magnolia flourishes when planted in organic, moist, acid soil in full sun, but is adaptable to most soils and growing conditions.
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Provide adequate room for the Star Magnolia to grow without restriction. The tree will reach a height of 15 to 20 feet at maturity with a canopy spread of 10 to 15 feet.
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Plant Star Magnolias in a protected area to prevent the flower buds from opening too early in the spring and then being damaged by a late freeze or heavy frost.
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Water regularly. Star Magnolia trees love moisture. Soak the roots weekly.
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Determine if fertilization is required. Most soils contain adequate nutrients to meet the needs of magnolia trees.
Take a soil sample when the tree is planted. Soil samples should be tested every three to five years. The best test to determine whether fertilization is necessary is a soil test. You will then know which nutrients are lacking. A soil test kit may be purchased at most garden supply stores or obtained from your county extension service.
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Add bone meal to the soil. If soil test indicate a shortage of iron, sprinkle bone meal around the base of tree, following package instructions. Water well.
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Tips & Warnings
The size and compact growing habit of the Star Magnolia makes it a perfect tree to plant in small spaces.
Prune Star Magnolias after the tree flowers to avoid removing buds set for the next season. Do not prune Star Magnolia trees unless you wish to train them to grow in a tree shape with a distinctive main trunk.
