Magnolia stellata

Name of plant:  Magnolia stellata

Family: Magnoliaceae

Common names:  Star Magnolia

Area of garden where plant is found: Throughout gardens

Distribution, habitat and conservation status: Japan

Description:. This tree grows 4.5 to 6 m (15 to 20 ft) in height, and speads upto 4.5m in maturity. The tree blooms at a young age, with the slightly fragrant 7–10 cm (3–4 in) flowers covering the bare plant in early spring before the leaves appear. There is natural variation within the flower color, which varies from white to rich pink; the hue of pink magnolias changes from year to year, depending on day and night air temperatures prior to and during flowering. The flowers are star shaped, with at least 12 thin, delicate tepals- some cultivars have more than 30.

Derivation of name: Not known.

History of Cultivation:  It was introduced into North America in 1860’s and has naturalised throughout and came into the UK 1870’s for production in nurseries. It is grown widely for its ornamental purposes.

Cultivation: Frost can damage the flowers. The plants prefer acidic soil

References: http://www.hort.uconn.edu/Plants/m/magste/magste1.html