Magnolia x loebneri 'Spring Snow'

This deciduous Magnolia tree is a hybrid from a cross between Magnolia kobus and Magnolia stellata. This cross between the taller Magnolia kobus and the shorter Magnolia stellata results in a medium-sized specimen.

'Spring Snow' is vigorous and flowers at an early age. It is a smaller magnolia at 20 to 30 feet, about as wide, and has a round shape and a low canopy. White blooms appear in February to March. This tree is sometimes grown in a multi-trunked shrub form.

A number of hybrid cultivars, or varieties, are now available commercially, featuring flowers that have white or varying shades of pink, including pink-lilac.

Pruning can be accomplished in the spring, after flowering. Regular pruning will give the plant additional airflow, which in turn can reduce its susceptibility to disease. Pruning also helps to rejuvenate new growth, thereby providing additional flower production.

An interesting feature is that a bruised stem emits a sweet fragrance. As with other magnolias, wildlife may use it as cover both within the dense branches and underneath on the ground. It can be grown in full sun or at the edge of a woodland area with partial shade.

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems: Scale are occasional pests. Powdery mildew is also an issue when plants do not receive proper lighting and air circulation is deficient. Late frosts in the spring can damage flower buds.

More information on Magnolia x loebneri.