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Magnolia Tree - Little Gem
Magnolia Tree - Little Gem
With the same wonderful attributes of the hardy Southern Magnolia Tree in a smaller, more manageable package, the Little Gem Magnolia Tree is ideal for landscapes that can't accommodate the 40-foot width of a typical magnolia. It makes a striking ornamental and fills in corners and borders with ease and lush evergreen growth.
The Little Gem is the most commonly planted of all magnolias. Here's why...
Advantages:
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Grows Best:Landscape |
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Ideal position:Full to partial sunlight 4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day 6 + Hours best |
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Growth Outlook:Height : 15'-20' Wide: 8' - 10' Growth Rate: Fast Plant Spacing: 20' - 30' |
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Pet Friendly - yes
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Overview
Magnolia Tree - Little Gem
The Magnolia 'Little Gem' is a compact and narrow evergreen tree that is perfect for small gardens. It is a popular variety of the Southern Magnolia, known for its glossy, dark green leaves with a bronze-brown underside.
This tree can grow up to 15 ft high and 8 ft wide, making it an excellent choice for a privacy screen or hedge. It is also a slow-growing tree, which means it requires less pruning and maintenance compared to other trees.
One of the most striking features of the Magnolia 'Little Gem' is its large, fragrant, creamy-white flowers that bloom from spring through summer. These flowers not only add a touch of elegance to any landscape but also attract a variety of pollinators, making it an eco-friendly choice for your garden.
The Magnolia 'Little Gem' is also known for its adaptability. It can thrive in a variety of soil conditions, although it prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It is also tolerant of air pollution and can withstand urban conditions, making it a versatile choice for both city and country gardens.
Overall, the Magnolia 'Little Gem' is a beautiful, resilient, and low-maintenance tree that can add a touch of charm and elegance to any landscape.
- Beautiful Blooms: Gem magnolia trees are known for their stunning, large, and fragrant flowers. The blooms are typically white or pale pink, adding a touch of elegance to any landscape.
- Compact Size: Gem magnolia trees are smaller in size compared to other magnolia varieties, making them a great choice for smaller gardens or limited spaces. They typically reach a height of 15-20 feet, making them easier to manage and maintain.
- Year-round Interest: In addition to their gorgeous blooms, gem magnolia trees offer year-round interest. The glossy, dark green leaves provide a lush backdrop, and in the fall, they turn a beautiful bronze color, adding warmth to the landscape.
- Low Maintenance: Gem magnolia trees are relatively low maintenance once established. They are generally disease-resistant and require minimal pruning. However, regular watering and occasional fertilization will help ensure healthy growth and abundant blooms.
- Versatile Use: Gem magnolia trees can be used in various landscaping settings. They make excellent focal points in gardens, can be planted as specimen trees, or even used as a privacy screen when planted in a row. Their versatility allows them to fit into different design styles and preferences.
Caring For
Position | Water | Temps | Food |
Caring for a Little Gem Magnolia tree involves several key steps to ensure its health and growth:
1. Sunlight: Little Gem Magnolias thrive in full sun to partial shade. They require at least 4 to 6 hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth and to produce abundant blooms.
2. Watering: These trees prefer evenly moist soil, but they are somewhat drought-tolerant once established. Water deeply and thoroughly, allowing the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
3. Soil: Little Gem Magnolias prefer well-draining, slightly acidic soil. If the soil in your area is heavy or clay-like, consider amending it with organic matter to improve drainage.
4. Fertilization: Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer formulated for trees in early spring. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for application rates and timing. Avoid excessive fertilization, as it can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of blooms.
5. Pruning: Prune your Little Gem Magnolia in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain the tree's shape and health.
6. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, leaving a few inches of space around the trunk. Mulching helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weed growth.
7. Protection from Cold: Little Gem Magnolias are relatively cold-hardy, but they can be damaged by severe frost. If you live in a region with occasional cold snaps, consider protecting the tree with frost cloth or moving it to a more sheltered location.
By following these care guidelines, you can ensure that your Little Gem Magnolia remains healthy, vibrant, and a beautiful addition to your landscape. Regular monitoring and attention to its needs will help it thrive and produce its iconic white blooms.