magnolia trees for zone 8

Star Magnolia: Those of you living in colder areas may already be familiar with Star Magnolia, Magnolia stellata. This magnolia is one of the best known species because it is very cold hardy (USDA Zones 4-8), widely adaptable and blooms when very small.

What is the hardiest magnolia tree?

You can't beat the star magnolia (Magnolia kobus var. stellata) for chilly areas. It's one of the best zone 4 magnolias, readily available in nurseries in the northern states. This cultivar stays gorgeous all season, budding in spring then showing off its star-shaped, fragrant flowers all summer.

What zones do magnolia trees grow in?

The tree does best in USDA zones 7 to 9, where it will grow in partial or full sunlight. Though evergreen, leaf drop may occur in the cooler end of its range. Southern magnolia should be planted in a protected location, as strong winds can damage its lustrous 4-inch leaves.

Can Magnolias survive winter?

Evergreen magnolia trees retain their leaves throughout the winter. A frost can damage the remaining leaves and kill foliage and limbs if the temperatures are unusually cold. Pre-planning the planting site and taking necessary precautions before the cold weather sets in protects magnolias from freeze damage.

How much does a mature magnolia tree cost?

When mature, Southern Magnolia trees can reach between 60 to 80 feet and they thrive best in sunny or partially shady conditions. Because of their popularity, they are one of the most expensive varieties, typically starting at around $70 to $100.

Where is the best place to plant a magnolia tree?

Magnolias prefer a spot in the garden that receives full sun to light shade. That said, if you live in a particularly warm or dry climate, your magnolia might benefit from a location shaded from the hot afternoon sun.

What is the most beautiful magnolia tree?

Southern Magnolia

With the floral name, Magnolia grandiflora, this beauty is the most common variety. So if you hear someone talking about a magnolia tree, this is probably the one they're referring to! Its large, creamy white and very fragrant flowers grace this broad leafed evergreen in late spring and early summer.

What are the worst trees to plant?

Trees known for their rather undesirable qualities, and why you should steer clear of them.

Cottonwood. One of the trees you should avoid having in your backyard is certainly cottonwood. ...
Bradford Pear. ...
Mimosa Tree. ...
Mulberry Tree. ...
Chinese Tallow. ...
Norway Maple. ...
Eucalyptus. ...
Quaking Aspen.

How long does it take for a magnolia tree to grow to full size?

Considerations When Growing Magnolias

These trees might take another 10 to 20 years to reach their mature heights. Cultivar and growth rate may dictate that a magnolia attains maturity in between 10 to 30 years, but conditions of soil, moisture and environment might oblige the tree to take longer.

Can you keep a magnolia tree small?

Growing Potted Magnolia Trees. ... And while standard magnolia varieties can reach 80 feet in height, several smaller cultivars max out at 20 feet tall. This means that a magnolia grown in a container or pot can brighten even a small space, and it can be moved to suit your (and your tree's) needs.

How do you winterize a magnolia tree?

Plant the magnolia tree in a southern, full-sun location. Place the plant beside a house, building or solid fence to afford it winter protection and keep chilling winds from taking their toll on the tree's delicate foliage. Apply 4 inches of mulch around the base of the tree and outward to the tree's drip line.

Can I plant a magnolia tree next to my house?

The answer is yes and no. While the roots are not necessarily invasive, you may get magnolia tree root damage when the trees grow too close to your house. ... In fact, magnolia tree roots spread farther than those of most trees. If your house is within root range, the roots can work their way into pipes under your house.

How do you take care of a magnolia tree in the winter?

Caring for Winter Damage

Prune away any damaged or dead wood. Apply a light fertilizer and mulch, which will help the tree recover and prevent frost from reaching the magnolia's roots in the future. Small frost cracks rarely require treatment. Larger ones, however, should be treated.

Is Magnolia root system invasive?

The roots of Little Gem Magnolia have a characteristic of wide-spreading, stretching from trunk to a span of four times the umbrella diameter but they're non-invasive.

Which magnolia tree is fast growing?

Fast growing trees grow more than 24 inches a year. 'Samuel Sommer' (Magnolia grandiflora 'Samuel Sommer') is a fast-growing cultivar that has bronze and green leaves up to 14 inches wide, and grows from 30 to 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide.

Are magnolia trees poisonous to dogs?

You don't have to pick between either your magnolia tree's waxy evergreen leaves and fragrant blooms or your cat and dog -- the magnolia tree isn't known for being toxic to animals.

How far away from my house should I plant a magnolia tree?

In general, plant large trees 30 to 50 feet from the house foundation to prevent damage by the roots. While magnolia roots are not considered invasive, they may seek out leaking water or sewer lines.

How deep should a magnolia tree be planted?

Planting Instructions

Dig a hole with a diameter of 100 cm and 50–60 cm deep. The first rich in humus layer of soil (first layer which was dug up) should be kept separate!

Do magnolias need sun?

Site and conditions. For best growth and flowering, site magnolias in full sun in a fertile, moist garden soil.

Do magnolia trees need a lot of water?

In general, you should water magnolia trees once a week during the first two growing seasons and twice a month in subsequent years. Magnolias planted in sandy soils need regular watering in smaller amounts, while magnolias in clay soils require deep, infrequent waterings.

Are magnolia trees fast growing?

These trees grow to a height of 80 feet (24 m.) tall with a spread of some 40 feet (12 m.). Southern magnolia facts suggest that the trees grow quite fast, shooting up some 12 to 24 inches (30-60 cm.) per year.

Are magnolias Hardy?

A magnolia tree is a big investment in time and money, once established it becomes an important part of your garden. ... Several deciduous magnolias are frost hardy, fast growing and have large, strikingly attractive leaves.