Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily')
Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily' Star magnolia boasts fragrant, showy white blooms, growing 10-20 ft in zones 4-8.
Complete Plant Information
Overview
Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’, or Star magnolia, is a highly desirable early-blooming deciduous shrub renowned for its spectacular display before the leaves emerge. This cultivar is valued because its slightly later bloom period grants some protection against unexpected late spring frosts that often damage the species type. Gardeners appreciate the classic, star-shaped white flowers that offer significant visual impact and pleasant fragrance across the landscape.
As a small tree or large shrub, the Star magnolia provides excellent structure in formal or informal settings, maturing into a rounded, spreading specimen. It generally requires medium maintenance but pays dividends early in the season with its showy, fragrant blooms. Planting Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ correctly ensures years of seasonal beauty in zones 4 through 8.
Fast Facts
- Plant Family: Magnoliaceae
- Plant Type: Deciduous shrub
- Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 4-8
- Size at Maturity:
- Height: 10-20 ft
- Spread: 8-15 ft
- Bloom Time: March to April
- Bloom Description: White
- Sun Exposure: Full sun to part shade
- Water Needs: Medium
- Maintenance Level: Medium
How to Grow
The ideal time to establish Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ is during the dormant season, either in early spring or fall, ensuring the plant has time to establish roots before summer heat. Select a location offering moist, organically rich, well-drained loams. While it tolerates part shade, this particular Star magnolia achieves its best flowering performance when placed in full sun.
Consistent moisture is crucial, especially during summer, as this plant is generally intolerant of both extremely dry or wet soil conditions. Site Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ away from high winds, and critically, avoid southern exposures where early winter thawing might trick the buds into premature opening. Applying a layer of mulch, such as compost or bark, will help stabilize soil temperatures and retain essential moisture.
Pruning should be performed sparingly and only if necessary, conducted immediately after the flowering period concludes in spring. The ‘Waterlily’ cultivar is noted for blooming roughly two weeks later than the straight species, offering a practical advantage against damaging spring frosts. Handle this species with care regarding urban pollution, as it tends to be intolerant of most pollutants.
Landscape Uses
Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ excels as a beautiful specimen flowering tree or shrub, providing unmatched early spring interest. Its manageable size makes it perfectly suited for planting near foundations where its dramatic blooms can be easily admired up close. It functions wonderfully as a focal point on a lawn or integrated into shrub borders that transition into woodland peripheries.
For a more formal look, the spreading habit of the Star magnolia allows it to be trained into a tall, informal hedge, offering structure when other plantings are still dormant. Consider pairing it with late-blooming perennials or deciduous shrubs that will provide textural contrast once the Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ finishes its show.
Standout Features
Flower Qualities
- Showy
- Fragrant
Noteworthy Characteristics
Magnolia stellata, commonly called star magnolia, is native to Japan and is a celebrated small deciduous tree or large shrub noted for its compact size and early bloom. Each flower typically features 12-18 narrow strap-like tepals, though the ‘Waterlily’ cultivar often displays significantly more, sometimes up to 36, giving it a distinct waterlily-like appearance. The attractive dark green leaves provide good substance throughout the growing season before turning a respectable gold or mediocre brownish-yellow in the fall.
Tolerances
- Clay Soil
Potential Problems
The primary concern when growing any early bloomer like this Star magnolia is potential frost damage to the delicate flowers in early spring, especially if planted in overly exposed southern facing sites. Otherwise, Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ is remarkably resilient, suffering from no serious insect or widespread disease problems typical of many other magnolias. Managing exposure to wind and monitoring for overly enthusiastic early warm spells are key preventative measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What hardiness zones is Star magnolia suitable for?
Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ is reliably hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 8.
How large does Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ grow?
This cultivar typically reaches a mature height between 10 and 20 feet, with a comparable spread between 8 and 15 feet.
When does Star magnolia bloom?
The bloom time for this highly sought-after Star magnolia is generally from March into April, producing white flowers.
What sun exposure does Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ need?
For optimal flowering, full sun exposure is recommended, though the plant will still establish adequately in partial shade conditions.
Conclusion
The Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ provides an unmatched spectacle of fragrant, showy white blooms early in the season, making it an invaluable asset to any landscape design. Because the cultivar exhibits some resistance to late frosts, it is one of the most reliable early bloomers available. Before planting, ensure your location provides well-drained soil and check your local USDA hardiness zone compatibility for success with this beautiful Star magnolia.
Companion Planting
When selecting companions for your Star magnolia, focus on plants that respect its moderate water needs and thrive in similar soil structures. Underplanting with acid-loving, shade-tolerant groundcovers like Hellebores or Astilbe can provide low-level visual interest beneath the canopy once the Magnolia stellata ‘Waterlily’ has dropped its earlier petals. For year-round structure, consider pairing it with broadleaf evergreens that contrast nicely with its deciduous branching habit.
Seasonal Care Calendar
Spring is the peak season for this plant, focusing on enjoying the bloom and applying a layer of mulch immediately after flowering wraps up to conserve moisture for the summer. During the summer months, strictly adherence to medium watering schedules is key, ensuring the soil remains consistently moist but never waterlogged. In autumn, observe the fall leaf color—which ranges from gold to dull yellow—and prepare planting sites for dormant additions, avoiding any late-season fertilization to promote winter hardiness.
