The Majestic Full Grown Galaxy Magnolia Tree

The galaxy magnolia tree (Magnolia בGalaxy’) makes an absolutely stunning focal point when fully mature. With its enormous pink blooms and neat pyramidal form this magnolia is a real showstopper in any landscape. In this article, we’ll look at everything you need to know about caring for and enjoying a full grown galaxy magnolia.

Overview of Mature Galaxy Magnolias

The galaxy magnolia is a deciduous hybrid tree that typically reaches 30-35 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide when fully grown. It has a neat, upright pyramidal growth habit with strong branching that forms a compact, symmetrical crown.

This exceptional magnolia is a cross between Magnolia liliiflora ‘Nigra’ and Magnolia sprengeri ‘Diva’ It combines the best attributes of both parents, including abundant flowers, disease resistance, and cold hardiness down to USDA zone 5.

One of the most spectacular features of a mature galaxy magnolia is its remarkable spring bloom. Flower buds emerge from large fuzzy pink buds, opening into massive blooms up to 10 inches across! The frilly flowers have six tepal-like petals in a vibrant reddish-purple coloration. They blossom on bare branches before leaves emerge.

Growing Conditions

Galaxy magnolias thrive in zones 5-9. They prefer full sun but tolerate partial shade. These trees appreciate moist, well-draining, acidic soil enriched with organic matter. Excellent drainage is a must to avoid root rot.

Established galaxy magnolias have moderate water needs. Provide regular irrigation while young but taper off as they mature. Mature trees are quite drought tolerant once their root system is developed.

Planting a Full Grown Specimen

When planting a mature galaxy magnolia, start by digging a wide planting hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball. Mix compost into the backfill soil to enrich it. Set the root ball on firmly packed soil so it doesn’t settle. Ensure the top sits level with the ground. Backfill the hole, tamping down gently to remove air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting.

For best results, plant in spring after the threat of frost has passed. But container-grown magnolias can be planted throughout the growing season as long as they are watered diligently.

Care for a Full Grown Galaxy Magnolia

With proper care, a mature galaxy magnolia will thrive for decades:

• Watering: Water deeply once a week while establishing. Mature trees only need occasional irrigation during drought.

• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced organic fertilizer each spring to encourage lush foliage and prolific blooms.

• Pruning: Prune only to remove dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning which reduces flowering.

• Pest/disease control: Monitor for magnolia pests like scale. Remove affected branches promptly. Preventive spraying is rarely needed.

• Mulching: Maintain 2-4 inches of mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch back from the trunk.

• Protection: Shelter young trees from harsh wind and winter sun exposure. Stake newly planted trees.

The Spectacular Galaxy Magnolia Bloom

Without a doubt, the main attraction of the galaxy magnolia is its remarkable spring flower display. On mature specimens, expect hundreds of showy reddish-purple blooms covering the bare branches in early spring.

The colossal blooms emerge from large, fuzzy pink buds. Right before opening, the flower buds resemble soft “pussy willows”, which gives this magnolia its nickname.

During peak bloom, galaxy magnolia flowers will stop traffic! The vibrant reddish-purple coloring makes them really stand out. And they grow over 10 inches across, dwarfing many other types of magnolias.

Blooming starts in early to mid spring. Flowering occurs later than many magnolias, which helps avoid frost damage. In colder zones, blooms open in late April into May. Further south, flowers appear as early as March.

Using Galaxy Magnolias in Landscape Design

In the landscape, mature galaxy magnolias make excellent:

• Specimen trees – With their neat form and eye-catching flowers, they are ideal focal point specimens. Situate them where the vibrant blooms can steal the show.

• Accent plants – Place galaxy magnolias in side yards or gardens where passersby can enjoy the dramatic flowers. Also perfect as a patio tree.

• Property line trees – Take advantage of the pyramidal shape by using them as living screens along borders.

• Street trees – The upright growth habit makes galaxy magnolias well suited for streetside planting. Provides great spring color.

• Ornamental backdrops – Plant a row as an attractive background for beds and borders. Allows perennials to shine in front.

For best growth, allow 15-20 feet between full grown galaxy magnolias and other trees. Underplant with lower-growing shrubs, perennials, and groundcovers. Some great companions include azaleas, hydrangeas, hostas, ferns, and heucheras.

Key Tips for Growing Healthy Galaxy Magnolias

Follow these tips to successfully grow a mature galaxy magnolia:

• Select a site with full sun to partial shade exposure. Morning sun is ideal.

• Plant in moist, well-draining, acidic soil. Improve drainage in heavy clay soils if needed.

• Water regularly after planting, then taper off as the tree establishes. Mature trees tolerate drought well.

• Apply an organic fertilizer annually to encourage lush foliage and prolific flowering.

• Prune only as needed to remove damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning which reduces blooms.

• Monitor for scale, spider mites, and other pests. Control with horticultural oils or insecticidal soap sprays.

• Provide winter protection for young trees. Stake newly planted trees to protect from wind damage.

• Mulch around the tree to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Keep mulch back from the trunk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about growing and caring for mature galaxy magnolias:

How long does it take for a galaxy magnolia to reach full size?

Galaxy magnolias grow at a moderate pace, averaging 1-2 feet per year. It typically takes about 15-20 years to reach their mature size of 30-35 feet tall and 15-20 feet wide.

How often do mature galaxy magnolias bloom?

Healthy mature galaxy magnolias flower abundantly every spring. Expect a spectacular floral display each year from established specimens.

When should I prune my full grown galaxy magnolia?

Prune minimally, removing only dead or damaged branches as needed. Avoid heavy pruning, which reduces flowering.

What size pot should I plant a mature galaxy magnolia in?

Select at least a 45-65 gallon container for a full grown magnolia. Larger pots mean less transplant shock.

How far apart should mature galaxy magnolia trees be spaced?

Allow 15-20 feet between full grown galaxy magnolias. Give them ample room to reach maturity without crowding each other.

Conclusion

With its huge pink blooms and neat form, the full grown galaxy magnolia makes a majestic focal point in any landscape. Follow the tips above to successfully plant and care for mature specimens. Take time to admire these stunning spring-flowering trees and all they have to offer the garden!