The Majestic Full Grown Galaxy Magnolia Tree
The galaxy magnolia tree (Magnolia בGalaxy’) makes an absolute showstopper in the landscape when fully mature. With its enormous pink blooms and neat, upright form, this deciduous magnolia can be the focal point of any garden. In this article, we’ll explore everything about growing and enjoying a full grown specimen.
Overview of Mature Galaxy Magnolias
The galaxy magnolia typically reaches 30-35 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide when fully grown. It has a neat pyramidal to oval growth habit with sturdy ascending branches that form a compact crown.
This hybrid magnolia was developed in 1963 by the U.S. National Arboretum by crossing Magnolia liliiflora ‘Nigra’ and Magnolia sprengeri ‘Diva’. It inherited the best qualities of both parents including abundant flowers disease resistance, and cold hardiness down to USDA zone 5.
One of the most striking features of a mature galaxy magnolia is its spectacular floral display in spring. The flowers emerge from large fuzzy pink buds, unfurling into massive blooms up to 10 inches across! The bowl-shaped flowers have six reddish-purple tepals and appear on bare branches before the leaves emerge.
Growing Conditions for Full Grown Galaxy Magnolias
Galaxy magnolias thrive in full sun to partial shade. They appreciate moist, well-draining acidic soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
These trees have moderate water needs. They require regular irrigation while establishing but become quite drought tolerant once mature. Provide sufficient water during dry spells for best growth and flowering.
Planting a Full Grown Galaxy Magnolia
When planting a mature galaxy magnolia, start by digging a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball. Add compost or well-rotted manure to improve drainage. Set the root ball on firmly packed soil so it doesn’t settle. Ensure the top of the root ball is level with the ground.
Backfill the hole gently, tamping down to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting. For best results, plant in spring after the threat of frost has passed. Or plant container-grown trees anytime during the growing season.
Caring for a Full Grown Galaxy Magnolia
With proper care, a mature galaxy magnolia will thrive for decades:
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Water deeply once a week while establishing, then as needed during droughts.
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Apply organic fertilizer each spring to encourage lush growth.
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Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches to avoid reducing blooms.
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Monitor for pests like scale and treat with horticultural oils.
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Mulch around the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
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Stake newly planted trees until established to prevent wind damage.
The Majestic Spring Flowers
The spectacular spring blooms are what make full grown galaxy magnolias so prized. You can expect hundreds of showy flowers covering the bare branches in early spring.
The enormous blooms emerge from fuzzy pink buds that resemble catkins, earning it the nickname “pussy willow magnolia.” Right before opening, the buds swell to reveal the colorful tepals tucked inside.
During peak bloom, galaxy magnolia flowers will take your breath away! The vibrant reddish-purple color makes them really stand out against the bare branching. Flowering begins in early to mid spring, lasting about 2-3 weeks.
After blooming, the flowers give way to large, lush green leaves that provide shade during summer. In fall, the foliage transforms into brilliant yellow and gold before dropping.
Using Galaxy Magnolias in Landscape Design
In the landscape, full grown galaxy magnolias make outstanding:
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Specimen trees – Showcase the vibrant flowers by planting as a focal point.
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Accent plants – Highlight entrances and side gardens with galaxy magnolias.
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Property line trees – Use the pyramidal shape for privacy screens.
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Street trees – The upright shape works well in confined spaces.
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Ornamental backdrops – Plant a row as a backdrop for beds and borders.
Allow 15-20 feet between full grown galaxy magnolias and other trees. Underplant with lower shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers. Some recommended companions are azaleas, hydrangeas, ferns, and hostas.
Tips for Growing a Healthy Galaxy Magnolia
Follow these tips to cultivate a thriving full grown galaxy magnolia:
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Select a site with full sun to partial shade. Morning sun is ideal.
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Plant in moist, well-draining acidic soil. Improve drainage if needed.
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Water thoroughly the first year, then taper off as it establishes.
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Fertilize annually with organic fertilizer to encourage blooms.
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Prune only as needed, avoiding heavy pruning which reduces flowering.
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Monitor for magnolia pests like scale and treat promptly.
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Mulch around the tree to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
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Stake newly planted trees to prevent wind damage while establishing.
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Shelter young trees from winter sun/wind to prevent bark damage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions about mature galaxy magnolias:
How long does it take to reach full size?
Galaxy magnolias grow 1-2 feet per year. They typically take 15-20 years to reach their full mature size.
How often do they bloom when fully grown?
You can expect a spectacular floral display from a healthy galaxy magnolia each spring once it reaches maturity.
When is the best time to prune?
Prune immediately after flowering since galaxy magnolias bloom on old wood. Avoid heavy pruning which reduces blooms.
What size container should I plant it in?
Select at least a 45-65 gallon pot for a full grown magnolia. Use the largest container possible to minimize transplant shock.
How far apart do they need to be spaced?
Allow 15-20 feet between mature galaxy magnolia trees to prevent overcrowding.
The Unique Galaxy Magnolia
With its incredible floral display and neat growth habit, the full grown galaxy magnolia is truly one-of-a-kind. For a focal point specimen that stops traffic in spring, look no further than this stunning hybrid magnolia. With proper care, you’ll enjoy its beauty for many years to come.
How Does Shipping Work?
Bower & Branch Trees, the real BIG trees, don’t fit in a box! Our big trees, sizes XL and bigger, require expert delivery and care, that means our extra-large trees are shipped on Bower & Branch trucks. We are the only ones who know how to ship our big and bigger trees and plants with tender loving care. We deliver your trees and plants directly to you. Ask Bower & Branch about planting services – wed be happy to assist in installation.
*For Big trees and Shrubs, Size XL and bigger: Review our Seasonal Shipping Timelines and Policy here.
Your trees and plants are grown across the United States at various Bower & Branch Growers. Depending on your location, your plant orders may be shipped from various locations. Please expect orders with multiple items to be delivered over a number of days as a result. Orders made up of numerous items or selections will not arrive at your home on the same day.
Shipping Delays:
From time to time, Bower & Branch Growers may determine to delay order shipment based on various factors for plant health. Weather in your region, as well as, where your plants are grown, is always considered when shipping. Extreme weather conditions may delay some or all of your order. Bower & Branch allows our Growers to make final shipping decisions based solely to benefit your trees and plants’ health and success.
How to use Galaxy Magnolia in the landscape?
This Magnolia is out of this world! Dark red-purple flowers appear in spring before leaves and after danger of frost – giving you a long lasting display of beautiful blooms. It offers a nice branching habit with somewhat of a pyramidal form. Perfect for narrow spaces or smaller landscapes – and good for street tree planting! A Gold Medal Award winner from the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society for its outstanding performance, hardiness, and eye-appeal.
Hardiness Zones: 5-9
Top 5 Best Magnolias for Cold Climates | NatureHills.com
FAQ
How big does a Galaxy magnolia get?
‘Diva’, late enough to avoid most late spring frost damage. Adaptable to a wide range of soil conditions. Height and Width: 30-40 feet tall and 22-25 feet wide.
What are the downsides of magnolia trees?
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TaskRabbithttps://www.taskrabbit.comMagnolia Tree Care: Planting, Growing, and Nurturing GuideJun 25, 2024 — Cons of Magnolias … While magnolias offer undeniable beauty, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider: Large size: Some magnolia varieties …
Where should you not plant a magnolia tree?
Another common mistake is planting them too close to other plants or garden structures—things like sheds, gazebos, and archways. True, some magnolia are versatile—they can grow as a hedge or be trained to climb up a lattice against a wall. But the majority of magnolia varieties prefer their space.
How long does it take for a magnolia tree to grow to full size?
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Moderate Growth Rate:Magnolias are generally considered moderate to fast-growing, but this can vary based on the specific variety and growing conditions.
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Annual Growth:Expect an established magnolia tree to add 1-2 feet of height each year.
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Initial Years:Young trees may grow more slowly initially as they focus on developing a strong root system.
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Variety Differences:Some magnolias, like the Southern Magnolia, can reach heights of 80 feet, while others, like the Star Magnolia, may only reach 15 feet.
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Factors Affecting Growth:Soil type, sunlight exposure, and proper watering can also influence how quickly a magnolia tree reaches its full size.
What is a galaxy magnolia tree?
The galaxy magnolia tree (Magnolia בGalaxy’) is an absolute showstopper when fully grown. With its huge, bright pink blooms and neat, upright form, this magnolia makes a striking focal point in any landscape. In this article, we’ll look at everything you need to know about caring for and enjoying a mature galaxy magnolia tree.
How big does a galaxy magnolia tree get?
In this article, we’ll look at everything you need to know about caring for and enjoying a mature galaxy magnolia tree. The galaxy magnolia is a deciduous tree that typically reaches 30-35 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide when fully mature. It has an upright, pyramidal to oval growth habit with sturdy branches that form a neat, compact crown.
How fast do Galaxy magnolias grow?
Galaxy magnolias grow at a moderate rate, averaging 1-2 feet per year. It typically takes about 15-20 years for them to mature to their full size of 30-35 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide. How often do full grown galaxy magnolias bloom?
How do you choose a galaxy magnolia tree?
In fall, the leaves transform into brilliant shades of yellow and gold before dropping. In the landscape, full grown galaxy magnolias make outstanding: Specimen trees – With its neat shape and eye-catching flowers, the galaxy magnolia is ideal as a focal point specimen. Plant it where the vibrant blooms can really steal the show.
Do Galaxy magnolias grow in shade?
They appear on bare branches in early spring before the leaves emerge. Galaxy magnolias thrive in zones 5-9. They prefer full sun to partial shade exposure. These trees appreciate moist, well-draining, acidic soil rich in organic matter. Good drainage is essential to prevent root rot.
How do you plant a galaxy Magnolia?
When planting a full grown galaxy magnolia, start by digging a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball. Improve the soil by mixing in compost or well-rotted manure Set the root ball on firmly packed soil to prevent settling Ensure the top of the root ball sits level with the ground.