Species star magnolia
white, dewy flower with creamy-brown stamens, and rough, deep brown stems

star magnolia

Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily'

Star Magnolia 'Waterlily' is a small, deciduous tree or shrub that is native to Japan. It has an attractive, spreading habit and produces beautiful, fragrant white blooms with yellow stamens in early spring. The blooms are so abundant they look like white stars in the night sky. Its oval-shaped, light green leaves emerge in the spring and turn yellow in the fall for a colorful show. 'Waterlily' pairs well with other spring-flowering shrubs and trees, and its low-maintenance care makes it a great choice for gardeners of all levels.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Grafting Propagation,Layering Propagation,Cutting,Seed Propagation,Division

Hardiness Zone:

4 - 8

Flowers:

White Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Leaf:

Yes

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Moderate

Care Level:

Easy

watering

Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily') should be given frequent light waterings during the summer when temperatures are warm and rainfall is scarce. During the hot months, you should water the plant at least once a week. In the spring and fall months, you should water the plant every few weeks or when the soil appears dry. In the winter time, water the plant only when the soil appears nearly dry. To avoid root rot, make sure not to overwater your star magnolia.

sunlight

Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily') prefer an area with full sun to part shade, meaning they should be exposed to at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight per day. This plant species does best when planted in an area with some morning sun and afternoon shade to protect it from the harsher afternoon sun. In areas with very hot summers, some afternoon shade will be necessary to ensure that the plant does not get sunburned or become too dry.

pruning

Star magnolia should be pruned in late winter, when the plant is still dormant. During this time, any branches that are crossing can be pruned, as well as any damaged or dead branches. Additionally, any branches that are growing inward and are competing with the center of the tree can be removed, to allow light into the center of the tree. Pruning should be done when necessary in order to keep the plant healthy and free of unneeded stress, and it should not be done heavily as it can slow down or stop flowering. For star magnolia, older plants should be pruned minimally, while young plants can be pruned more heavily.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Star magnolias typically start flowering in March or April.

Hardiness Map