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The Low-Maintenance Magnolia Tree Variety You'll Want To Plant ASAP
By MICHAEL ALEXANDER UCCELLO
If you’re looking to enjoy the sweet-scented beauty of a magnolia but are concerned about the tree’s space and care demands, the compact "Little Gem” variety could be the answer.
The "Little Gem" grows to about 20 to 25 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide. Its parent species, the majestic Southern Magnolia, can reach heights of 80 feet.
From early spring and throughout the summer, the "Little Gem" produces large, fragrant, creamy cup-shaped flowers, and it will start flowering two to three years after planting.
Magnolia trees should be planted in the spring or fall, in sheltered locations with at least six hours of sun daily, and ideally, acidic, nutrient-rich, well-drained soil.
Although this variety is compact above ground, its root system can extend roughly four times the width of the canopy, so avoid planting it within 15 feet of a concrete foundation.
You’ll need to water a young "Little Gem" around three times a week, but less often as it matures. Fertilizing in spring and mulching in winter will encourage your tree to thrive.
Compared with other magnolias, it has minimal pruning requirements: just remove any dead or crossing branches after flowering. It’s also more resistant to many pests and diseases.
"Little Gem" even attracts birds to your garden, which shelter and nest in its abundant evergreen foliage, and its gorgeous flowers are enjoyed by bees and butterflies.