The Little Gem Magnolia, also known as Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem,' is a popular and versatile evergreen tree. Here's everything you need to know about it:
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Size and Shape: The Little Gem Magnolia is a compact variety that typically reaches a height of 20 to 30 feet and a spread of 10 to 15 feet. It has a dense, upright, and pyramidal shape, making it suitable for smaller spaces or as a focal point in the landscape.
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Foliage: This magnolia variety features glossy, dark green leaves with a leathery texture. The leaves are smaller than those of the traditional Southern Magnolia, typically measuring around 5 to 7 inches long. The foliage provides year-round interest and remains on the tree throughout the year.
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Flowers: The Little Gem Magnolia produces beautiful, fragrant, creamy white flowers that can reach up to 6 inches in diameter. The flowers bloom from late spring to early summer and may continue sporadically throughout the year. They add a touch of elegance and fragrance to the landscape.
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Type:
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Tree
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Origins:
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Southeast N. America; GA Native
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Height:
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20' - 25’
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Spread:
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10' - 15'
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Spacing:
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12’
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USDA Hardiness Zone:
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7 - 9
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Culture:
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Full Sun, Part Sun
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Bloom Color:
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White
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Season of Interest:
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Spring, Summer, Year-Round
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MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low Maintenance. Regular water in first year.
LANDSCAPE USES: Specimen or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Foundation Plantings, Hedges.
COMPANION PLANTS: Indian Hawthorn, Viburnum, Hydrangea
IMAGES: Photo by David J. Stang, Magnolia grandiflora Little Gem 0zz, CC BY-SA 4.0, (2) Photo by cultivar413, 190909 090 Chicago Botanic Gdn, (3) Photo by David J. Stang, Magnolia grandiflora Little Gem 9zz, CC BY-SA 4.0
*As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.
