Blue Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata)

Blue Magnolia is a unique and rare deciduous magnolia species native to eastern North America. It is one of the hardiest magnolias and is known for its unusual greenish-yellow to bluish-purple tinged flowers. Though not as showy as other magnolias, its subtle beauty, large stature, and tolerance of colder climates make it a prized specimen tree. The name “Cucumber Tree” comes from the shape of its immature fruit.

Category

Sun Needs:

  • Full sun to partial shade
  • Best flowering in full sun
  • Tolerates some shade, especially in warmer climates

Bloom Time:

  • Late spring to early summer
  • Cup-shaped flowers, 2–4 inches across
  • Colors range from yellow-green to bluish-purple, depending on cultivar
  • Lightly fragrant
Size:

Height: 50 to 80 feet tall (can reach up to 100 feet in ideal conditions)
Width: 30 to 50 feet wide

Attributes:
  • Large, pyramidal tree with a straight trunk
  • Smooth, elliptic green leaves (2–8 inches long)
  • Unique flower color among magnolias
  • Ornamental pinkish-red fruit in late summer
  • Bark is furrowed and gray-brown
  • Native to eastern North America
  • One of the most cold-hardy magnolias (USDA Zones 4–9)
Care Tips:
  • Plant in moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
  • Water regularly, especially during establishment
  • Mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots
  • Prune only to remove dead or damaged wood
  • Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers late in the season
  • Monitor for scale insects and leaf spot

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