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Sweet-bay is a small tree (to 30 feet or 10 m tall) with light green leaves with whitish undersides. An evergreen plant further south, it hangs onto its leaves long into the fall in New England, and drops them green. It produces small numbers of showy white flowers with slightly cupped petals that give rise to aggregate fruits that split open to reveal seeds covered in red flesh (arils). Its gray bark is smooth. This species is more common in the southeast U. S., reaching the northern edge of its range in Connecticut and Massachusetts.
County documented: documented to exist in the county by evidence (herbarium specimen, photograph). Also covers those considered historical (not seen in 20 years).
State documented: documented to exist in the state, but not documented to a county within the state. Also covers those considered historical (not seen in 20 years).
Note: when native and non-native populations both exist in a county, only native status is shown on the map.
Exact status definitions can vary from state to state. For details, please check with your state.
Magnolia trees are known for their incredibly beautiful and fragrant blooms that appear in spring and early summer. While Southern magnolias may be better suited for warm climates, there are some hardy magnolia varieties that can thrive in New England gardens when planted in the right conditions
In this comprehensive guide we’ll discuss the best types of magnolia trees to grow in New England including smaller varieties perfect for small yards. We’ll also cover tips on when and where to plant magnolias, how to care for them, and common problems these trees face in this region.
Magnolia Varieties Suited for New England’s Climate
There are over 200 species of magnolia trees and shrubs to choose from. Here are some of the hardiest and most recommended types for growing in New England:
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Star Magnolia: A deciduous magnolia growing 15-20 feet tall. Features white or pink flowers blooming in early spring before leaves emerge. Hardy to zone 4.
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Saucer Magnolia: A small, deciduous tree reaching up to 25 feet tall. Blooms early spring with white, pink or purple 5-10 inch flowers before leaves. Hardy in zone 5.
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Loebner Magnolia: A magnolia hybrid with larger blooms than star magnolia. Available in various flower colors. Grows 20-30 feet tall. Hardy in zones 4-5.
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Little Girl Hybrids: A cross between star and lily magnolias. Grows 10-15 feet tall. Blooms later than other magnolias, extending the season. Hardy to zone 4.
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Sweetbay Magnolia: A native magnolia with fragrant white summer flowers. Grows up to 20 feet tall. Hardy in zones 5-9.
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Cucumbertree Magnolia: A large, fast-growing deciduous magnolia. Has yellow blossoms. Hardy to zone 4 but can reach 60 feet tall.
When and Where to Plant Magnolias
Spring is the ideal time for planting magnolia trees in New England. They prefer moist, acidic, well-drained soil high in organic matter.
Choose a site with full sun to partial shade. East or north facing locations can help delay flowering and protect blossoms from late spring frosts.
Space magnolia trees according to their expected mature size, allowing 10-20 feet between trees. This prevents overcrowding as they grow.
Caring for Magnolia Trees
Proper care is crucial, especially in the first few years after planting, to ensure magnolia trees thrive:
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Water regularly after planting and during dry periods. Mulch around trees to preserve moisture.
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Fertilize in early spring with a fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants. This encourages growth.
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Prune crossing or damaged branches after flowering to maintain shape. Avoid major pruning that removes flower buds.
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Monitor for signs of magnolia scale, which looks like small bumps on branches. Use horticultural oil spray to control.
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Remove spent flowers and debris to discourage diseases.
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Wrap young trees in burlap over winter to protect from rabbits or deer.
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Apply thick mulch around the base to insulate roots from cold winter temps.
Avoiding Common Problems
Magnolias face some challenges in New England that require preventative care:
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Frost damage: Early spring blooms are prone to damage from late frosts. Select later blooming varieties and plant in protected sites to delay flowering.
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Magnolia scale: This insect sucks sap, weakening trees. Horticultural oils or insecticidal soap provide control.
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Yellowing leaves: Can indicate insufficient nutrients. Fertilize in spring with acidic fertilizer.
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Sooty mold: A fungus that grows on magnolia scale honeydew. Control scale insects to get rid of it.
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Leaf spots/blights: Fungal diseases favored by wet conditions. Improve air circulation and avoid overhead watering.
Designing With Magnolias
Magnolias make excellent focal point specimens in the landscape. Here are some tips:
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Plant large varieties as standalone specimen trees on the lawn.
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Use smaller magnolias in foundation plantings or mixed borders.
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Grow near patios, entries or benches to admire the blooms up close.
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Partner with evergreens like spruce for striking color contrast.
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Plant where flowers can be viewed from inside the home.
Enjoying Magnolias to the Fullest
To fully appreciate the beauty of magnolia trees, here are some suggestions:
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Visit public gardens during peak bloom to admire towering specimens.
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Attend festivals celebrating magnolias like North Carolina’s Magnolia Festival.
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Snip a few branches to showcase the elegant blooms indoors.
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Plant different magnolia varieties together to extend the bloom season.
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Capture their stunning colors and fragrances in photographs.
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Stop and smell the flowers when passing by in full bloom.
With proper selection and care, magnolia trees can thrive in New England gardens. Their incredible blossoms and shapely form make them a wonderful addition suited for smaller yards. By following the tips in this guide, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking magnolia blooms each year.
Regional Advice and Care
One of the biggest problems with magnolias in New England is their early blooming habit. Flowers and buds are often killed in late spring frosts. To delay flowering, plant on the east side of the building and mulch the trees well to keep the ground cool. Magnolia scale and the resulting sooty mold fungus are often a problem. Spray trees with horticultural oil to control the scale insect.
Bloom Period and Seasonal Color
Early spring with white, pink or yellow flowers
Top 5 Best Magnolias for Cold Climates | NatureHills.com
FAQ
Will a magnolia tree grow in New England?
But magnolias are a diverse group of trees and there are some that grow well in New England.
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.
What are the disadvantages of a magnolia tree?
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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 …
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High Plains Journalhttps://hpj.comPros and cons of Southern Magnolias – High Plains JournalJul 22, 2018 — While Southern magnolias are promoted as a hurricane and storm resistant tree, those of us in hot, dry climates are cautioned to plant magnolias in …
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Plantation Tree Companyhttps://www.plantationtrees.comClaudia Wannamaker Southern Magnolia – FAQs, Pros And ConsNov 13, 2023 — 1. Size: Southern Magnolias are large trees that may not be suitable for small yards or confined spaces. Their size can be challenging to manage and…
Which is better, Jane or Ann magnolia?
Why You Might Pick ‘Ann’ For Your Yard Over ‘Jane’ ‘Jane’ grows larger with a maximum height of about 20-25 feet and 15-20 feet in width so it’s the one to select if you have more space available to grow a tree. ‘Ann’ tops out at around 10-12 feet tall and 10-12 wide so it grows into more of a large shrub.