Bred by Soulange-Bodin in the 1820s, by 1840 the saucer magnolia was coveted by gardeners around the world and sold for about $8 per seedling, which was a very expensive price for a tree in those days. Today, the saucer magnolia is still one of the most popular trees in the U.S. and Europe. Continue reading for more saucer magnolia information.
Saucer Magnolia Growing Conditions
Hardy in zones 4-9, saucer magnolia prefers well-draining, slightly acidic soil in full sun to part shade. The trees can also tolerate some clay soils. Saucer magnolia is usually found as a multi-stemmed clump, but single-stem varieties can make better specimen trees in gardens and yards. Growing about 1-2 feet (30.5-61 cm.) per year, they can reach 20-30 feet (6-9 m.) tall and 20-25 feet (6-7.5 m.) wide at maturity. Saucer magnolia gained its common name from the 5- to 10-inch (12.5 to 15 cm.) diameter, saucer-shaped flowers it bears in February-April. The exact bloom time depends on the variety and location. After a saucer magnolia’s pink-purple and white blooms fade, the tree leafs out in leathery, dark green foliage that beautifully contrasts with its smooth gray bark.
Caring for Saucer Magnolias
Saucer magnolia does not need any special care. When first planting a saucer magnolia tree, it will require deep, frequent watering to develop strong roots. By its second year, however, it should only need watering in times of drought. In cooler climates, flower buds can be killed by a late frost and you may end up with no flowers. Try later blooming varieties like ‘Brozzonii,’ ‘Lennei,’ or ‘Verbanica’ in northern areas for more reliable blooms.
