Magnolia stellata

Magnolia stellata is a compact, slow-growing, deciduous magnolia valued for its abundant star-shaped white flowers that open in early spring before the leaves. Well-suited to Irish gardens as a specimen for smaller spaces, it performs best in sun or light shade with shelter from cold winds and late frosts, which can mark the buds. Plant in moist, well-drained, humus-rich soil that is neutral to acid, and avoid chalky or very alkaline conditions. Minimal pruning is needed; if required, prune lightly just after flowering to maintain shape, and mulch annually with organic matter to conserve moisture.

To help give a clear sense of scale, the stone wall shown in our photos measures approximately 265cm in height. We also use familiar garden tools as visual references: a digging fork (110cm tall) and a hand fork (30cm tall). These are included purely as size guides to help you better judge proportions when viewing the images.

Position: Sun or light shade; sheltered

Rate of Growth: Slow

Soil: Moist, well-drained, humus-rich, neutral to acid soil

Hardiness: Fully hardy

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Plant at a Glance