
There’s hope for spring. The Saucer Magnolia, also known as the Japanese Magnolia or Tulip Tree, is in full bloom. This deciduous magnolia looks sensational with its leafless branches covered in saucer sized blooms that are white inside and pink or purple outside.
Hardy in zones 5-9, the Saucer Magnolia prefers moist (not wet) acidic soil and full sun to part shade. Even though it isn’t considered drought tolerant, my tree weathered several years of drought without a problem.
This beautiful tree grows up to 25 feet high and can be cultivated in a tree shape with a single trunk or more shrub-like with multiple trunks. My Saucer Magnolia was a single trunk which kept getting taller and taller until it blocked the view of the lake. Two years ago, my landscaper recommended cutting it down, then when new shoots emerged, let 3 or 4 develop into trunks. He assured me it wouldn’t die, but I was a little skeptical.
As you can see, it worked. The Saucer Magnolia now has 4 healthy trunks and is covered in blooms. I’m sure it will continue to grow taller, but pruning will be much easier. Now this lovely tree will continue to herald the coming of Spring.