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InsightHorizon Digest

How big does a star magnolia tree get

Author

Isabella Browning

Updated on April 06, 2026

The star magnolia grows to a height of 15–20′ and a spread of 10–15′ at maturity.

Is a star magnolia a shrub or tree?

The star magnolia (Magnolia stellata) is known as a small tree or large shrub that is native to Japan. The habit is oval with low branches and very close-set stems. There are many cultivars available such as Centennial, which grows to 25 feet (7.5 m.)

How long do star magnolia trees live?

Magnolia trees can live anywhere from 80 to 120 years. While variety does have some impact on their lifespans, proper care usually has the most impact on the length and quality of a magnolia tree’s life.

Does star magnolia have invasive roots?

While the roots are not necessarily invasive, you may get magnolia tree root damage when the trees grow too close to your house. … Remember that the magnolia root system is very wide, up to four times the width of the tree canopy. In fact, magnolia tree roots spread farther than those of most trees.

Is Magnolia stellata fast growing?

Slow growing and ideal for small gardens.

What is the smallest magnolia tree?

Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata), hardy in USDA zones 4 through 8 or 9, is a mini-magnolia tree that usually only reaches 15 to 20 feet tall. It has nearly equal spread. The flowers of this miniature magnolia tree have narrower petals than those of Southern magnolia and some other species.

How long does it take for a Star Magnolia tree to grow?

Growth Rate This shrub grows at a medium to fast rate, with height increases of anywhere from 13″ to more than 24″ per year.

How far away from the house should I plant a magnolia tree?

In general, plant large trees 30 to 50 feet from the house foundation to prevent damage by the roots. While magnolia roots are not considered invasive, they may seek out leaking water or sewer lines.

How do you keep a magnolia tree small?

When deciduous magnolias are young, prune out any weak growth or branches that spoil the overall shape. In subsequent years, only prune to remove dead and damaged wood, or to improve the shape. Mature trees often produce vertical shoots, known as watershoots.

Where is the best place to plant a magnolia tree?

Where to plant magnolias. Magnolias grow best in fertile, well-drained, slightly acidic soil in full sun. Choose a sheltered spot that is not in a low-lying frost pocket – frost can damage the flowers. If you live in a cold part of the country, choose a variety that flowers later.

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How much does a star magnolia tree cost?

This variety is often grown as a tree but can make for a beautiful shrub as well. You can typically find a Star Magnolia for around $60 to $70 online or at local nurseries. It thrives in moderate weather conditions and loves areas that have either full sunlight or partial shade.

How do you take care of a star magnolia?

You should aim to keep the soil moist and well-drained, watering it weekly (more often in extreme heat). Sunlight: Plant your star magnolia where it can receive at least four hours of full sun each day. Winter care: Adding a couple of inches of compost in late winter can help encourage prolific blooms.

How much space do magnolia trees need?

The Magnolia “Little Gem” tree should be planted on soil with pH 5.6 to 6.5 and should be spaced between 8 feet to 12 feet between each other. Many homeowners tend to plant trees not only as a windbreak but to create a bit of privacy.

What does a star magnolia look like?

Star magnolia is an oval to rounded shrub or small tree that will grow15 to 20 feet in height with a spread of 10 to 15 feet. The habit is a very upright conical crown when young; crown spreads some with age. Leaves are alternate, simple, obovate or elliptical, and 2 ½ to 4 inches with entire margins.

What can I plant under a star magnolia tree?

You can plant the elephant ears under the outer branches where they can enjoy half shade and half sun. A mixed planting of ferns and hostas looks lovely under a magnolia tree, and they do well on just a few hours of morning sunlight. Foliage plants can completely transform the area by giving it a lush look.

How big does a Magnolia stellata grow?

It is a slow growing deciduous shrub eventually reaching up to 4m in height and width. The growth is ovate and upright when young spreading with age to form a beautiful rounded shrub or small tree.

Are magnolia trees messy?

But hear us out: Many magnolias grow far too big for the average yard. Leaf drop happens year-round, which means that the addition of a magnolia ups the messy-yard factor significantly.

What are the cons of magnolia trees?

Its shallow roots spread wide and can cause damage to sidewalks and driveways; if relocated during construction, a magnolia will undergo significant damage and likely die.

Is there a dwarf star Magnolia?

No, these Magnolias are considered deciduous, they drop their leaves in the Winter season and bloom beautiful white star shaped flowers again in early to mid spring. How Big Does This Magnolia Get? This tree is considered a dwarf tree growing to a height and spread of 10-15 feet when mature.

Which is the best magnolia tree?

The iconic southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is the most well-known. However, deciduous varieties of the magnolia tree is a flowering plant that can be grown in almost any region of the U.S. With over 200 varieties, there is certainly a breathtaking magnolia tree that will thrive in your yard!

Do Magnolia trees come in different sizes?

Magnolias range from 8-foot multi-stemmed shrubby trees to specimens 70 feet tall, with a horizontal spread of 50 feet.

Do Magnolias flower twice?

Magnolias can flower for a long period, often with a second flush a few months later. Different species bloom at different times, from early spring to late summer.

Are magnolia trees good?

Magnolias are good as strictly ornamental plants, though they do produce berries that the birds enjoy in fall. They grow in tree or shrub form, and some are deciduous, meaning they shed their leaves, while others remain evergreen.

What is the difference between a magnolia tree and a magnolia bush?

Regardless of size or shape, a magnolia is a magnolia. The difference basically applies to the number of stems coming from the base of the tree that produce a single-trunked tree shape or the fuller, many-branched look of a shrub.

Are magnolia trees hard to grow?

If you’ve long admired the beauty of magnolias, you’ll be happy to learn that they’re quite easy to grow. And with over 80 species native to North America and Asia, there’s sure to be one that’s right for your yard.

When should I plant a magnolia tree?

What time of year should you plant a Magnolia? Deciduous magnolias (those that drop their leaves in fall) are best planted when dormant, typically in late fall or winter in warmer climates and early spring in cold climates. Evergreen magnolias are best planted in early spring.

Can a magnolia tree damage house foundations?

However, magnolia tree roots are not considered as invasive and potentially destructive as some root systems. But their large spread can affect weak foundations. Large magnolia trees can indirectly lead to foundation problems if they shield a house wall from sunlight and create damp conditions.

Is magnolia tree good for backyard?

Magnolias are easy to care for and disease-resistant,” Brower says. They’re also versatile—they can grow as a hedge or be trained to climb up a lattice against a wall. Here, you’ll find a few popular choices worth exploring, plus Brower’s guidance on how to incorporate them into your outdoor space.

Do magnolia trees require a lot of water?

Watering Magnolias Whatever their size, magnolias are low-maintenance plants that don’t require frequent watering. In general, you should water magnolia trees once a week during the first two growing seasons and twice a month in subsequent years.

Do magnolia trees grow fast?

These trees grow to a height of 80 feet (24 m.) tall with a spread of some 40 feet (12 m.). Southern magnolia facts suggest that the trees grow quite fast, shooting up some 12 to 24 inches (30.5-61 cm.) per year.

What is a Royal Star magnolia?

A charming, compact form of the Star Magnolia, award-winning Magnolia stellata ‘Royal Star’ is a multi-stemmed, deciduous shrub or small tree of great popularity. … It is very hardy, however, its blooms, like those of most early blooming Magnolias, are susceptible to late frosts.