large-leaved cucumber tree
Magnolia macrophylla
USDA zones5 to 8
SunHandles full sun to partial shade
WaterHandles moderate to moist soil
Size30 to 40 feet tall30 to 40 feet wide
- Growth rate
- Slow
- Bloom season
- Spring, summer, autumn
- Bloom color
- White with purple petal bases
- Foliage color
- Gray/silver, green
- Soil types
- Sand, loam, clay
- Soil pH
- Acid, neutral
Garden uses
Attracts
Notes
Large-leaved cucumber tree (Magnolia macrophylla) is a tree for specimen planting and low maintenance landscapes. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes full sun to part shade and average to moist, sandy, loamy, or clay soil. The huge leaves have silver undersides, and the fragrant white flowers have purple at the base. Plant it away from strong winds so the leaves do not shred. Be patient, because a young tree can take 12 or more years to bloom.
Pairs well with Shumard oak, Autumn fern, Incrediball hydrangea, and Big bluestem.
Native range
Caribbean, Mexico, and southeastern United States.