Magnolia
Magnolia stellata 'Star' and Magnolia stellata 'Anne'
hardy in zones 4-9
Grow magnolias in partial shade; morning sun with afternoon shade is best. Select a very sheltered location, between buildings or among large evergreens where snow collects. Magnolias set their flower buds for next year in late summer, and these buds are tenderer than other parts of the shrub. Star magnolia will bloom profusely only if it is protected during cold, dry winter weather. A warm spell in March may signal buds to break dormancy; frost afterwards will kill buds. Prune immediately after flowering for shape and size. Magnolias often drop all their leaves at once on a calm day, leave these leaves in place and lightly cover with mulch to keep soil fertility high. Flowers in early spring before leafing out. Slow growing. Can grow up to 6 meters (20 feet) high, but expect a smaller size in cold climates.
