You may also hear this tree called a yellow tulip tree. It is a hybrid species that was created by the Brooklyn Botanic Garden (BBG) in 1981. This flowering tree is the result of a backcross of M. acuminata var. subcordata and another hybrid developed by BBG, Magnolia × brooklynensis ‘Evamaria. ’ Genetics aside, what you need to know is that this magnolia tree is stunning in the spring.
The yellow bird magnolia can grow in a wide range of climates and needs at least some sun, but full sun is best. Water it deeply and ensure that the soil is acidic and well-draining for optimal health and blooming activity.
Yellow magnolia trees bring a burst of sunshine and cheer to gardens with their vibrant golden blooms in spring. While magnolias are typically known for their white or pinkish flowers, yellow varieties have become increasingly popular options. When fully mature, these trees put on an unforgettable floral showcase.
In this article we’ll look at
- The characteristics of full grown yellow magnolias
- Popular large varieties to grow
- Tips for caring for mature magnolia trees
- How to showcase them in your landscape
Reaching Their Mature Size
Most yellow magnolia trees take 10-20 years to reach their full mature height and width, which can vary quite a bit by variety. On average, you can expect a full grown yellow magnolia to measure:
- Height: 25-40 feet tall
- Width: 15-30 feet wide
The tallest varieties can potentially reach up to 60 feet in height, while more compact types may max out at 15-25 feet tall and wide.
No matter the exact size, a mature magnolia makes a statement in the landscape It becomes a focal point and towering specimen wherever it’s planted
Stunning Yellow Blooms
The payoff for patiently growing a magnolia tree to maturity is the incredible floral display they put on each spring.
When fully grown, yellow magnolias produce hundreds of flowers that absolutely smother the branches. The blossoms emerge before the leaves, allowing them to really stand out.
The blooms come in various shades of yellow, from pale lemon to rich gold. They have a graceful, cup or tulip shape formed by the wide spread petals. The interior of the flower also reveals eye-catching reddish stamens.
Magnolia flowers also fill the air with their sweet, citrusy fragrance. It’s easy to see why they are so highly prized.
Popular Large Varieties to Grow
Many yellow magnolia varieties make excellent full sized specimen trees. Here are a few top choices:
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‘Elizabeth’ – Grows 25-40 feet tall and wide. Large lemon yellow blooms.
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‘Butterflies’ – Matures at 25-30 feet tall. Prolific small yellow flowers.
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‘Gold Finch’ – Grows up to 30 feet tall. Rich golden blooms.
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‘Ivory Chalice’ – Can reach 30-40 feet tall/wide. Cup-shaped ivory blooms.
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‘Yellow Bird’ – Matures around 40 feet tall. Abundant yellow goblet-shaped flowers.
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‘Hot Flash’ – Maxes out around 30 feet tall. Unique bi-colored yellow blooms.
Consider the mature size when choosing a variety to ensure it fits the space you have. But any of these will shine as full grown specimen trees.
Caring for Mature Magnolia Trees
Taking proper care of your magnolia as it matures will ensure it stays healthy and able to produce that incredible floral display year after year. Here are some tips:
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Watering – Water deeply once a week during dry periods. Established trees are drought tolerant but need water during extreme heat.
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Fertilizing – Feed in early spring with a balanced fertilizer to nourish flowering and growth.
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Pruning – Prune to shape in late winter if needed. Avoid heavy pruning which can reduce blooms.
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Pests – Watch for common pests like scales, borers, and root weevils. Treat organically at first sight.
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Diseases – Prevent issues like leaf spot, powdery mildew, and root rot with proper cultural care.
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Protect from wind – Site in a sheltered spot away from harsh winds which can damage blooms and branches.
Avoid invasive cultivation around the root zone which can harm surface roots. Pick up fallen leaves and petals to keep the area clean.
Showcase in Your Landscape
A full grown magnolia deserves a prominent place in your landscape where it can really shine. Here are some tips for showing it off:
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Plant as a focal point in your front yard or near an entryway where it will draw attention.
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Use as a specimen tree surrounded by lower ornamental plantings and mulch beds.
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Highlight against a plain backdrop like a wall or fence to make it pop.
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Pair with contrasting flowers like tulips or azaleas for an eye-catching color combo.
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Illuminate at night with landscape lighting focused on the canopy to create drama.
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Train lower branches into an archway to frame a path or seating area underneath.
Take time to find just the right spot to give your yellow magnolia the spotlight it deserves as an anchoring element in your landscape.
5 Stunning Yellow Magnolias for Full Size Specimens
To give you an idea of what to expect from mature yellow magnolias, here’s a more in-depth look at 5 top performers:
1. Magnolia ‘Elizabeth’
- Grows 25-40 feet tall and wide
- Huge 12+ inch blooms emerge in early spring
- Primrose yellow with pinkish interior
- Pyramidal form makes a dramatic focal point
With its huge, elegant blooms and large size, ‘Elizabeth’ is one of the most popular yellow magnolias. Give it room to reach its full potential.
2. Magnolia ‘Gold Cup’
- Matures around 25 feet tall and 20 feet wide
- Rich golden yellow goblet-shaped blooms
- Blooms heavily even on young trees
- Upright habit but spreads with age
‘Gold Cup’ is prized for its heavy, long lasting bloom display starting at a young age. Its spreading form gives it a full, rounded shape.
3. Magnolia ‘Butterflies’
- Typically grows 25-30 feet tall
- Prolific small yellow flowers cover the branches
- Blooms later in spring, avoiding frost damage
- Dense pyramidal shape for narrow spaces
With smaller flowers but incredible flower power, ‘Butterflies’ is perfect where you need a bold statement but have limited space.
4. Magnolia ‘Yellow Lantern’
- Matures around 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide
- Pale lemon hanging lantern-shaped blooms
- Flowers heavily at a young age
- Wider spread fills out nicely when mature
‘Yellow Lantern’ is a more compact magnolia perfect for residential yards, but still makes a statement when mature with loads of dangling yellow blooms.
5. Magnolia ‘Daybreak’
- Grows up to 40 feet tall and 30 feet wide
- Vibrant golden flowers fade to pale yellow
- Blooms later in spring, avoiding frost
- Dense oval form provides privacy
As a larger specimen, ‘Daybreak’ works well for screening and privacy with its dense growth habit and brilliant golden blooms.
Bring Sunshine to Your Landscape
Full grown yellow magnolia trees are truly stunning landscape specimens that will take your breath away in spring. Their huge, dramatic blooms smothering the bare branches are a marvelous sight.
Take time to pick the perfect large variety for your space and climate. Then give it the care and prime placement it deserves to showcase those vibrant flowers. It will become a beloved, graceful focal point in your garden for years to come.
Common Problems With Yellow Bird Magnolia
The yellow bird magnolia is a fairly tolerant magnolia tree that isn’t prone to many problems. However, it is subject to some of the same pitfalls and diseases as other magnolia trees. Here’s what to watch for when growing this ornamental flowering tree.
How to Get Yellow Bird Magnolia to Bloom
The yellow bird magnolia is grown for its many yellow flowers, and it will not disappoint if it is given the right conditions to grow in. Here’s what to do to encourage flower development and what you can expect during this tree’s bloom season.
Cottage Farms Yellowbird Magnolia Tree on QVC
FAQ
How big are magnolia trees when they are full grown?
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Common Name
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Magnolia, saucer magnolia, tulip magnolia, Southern magnolia
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Plant Type
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Tree and shrub
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Mature Size
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20-80 ft. tall, 20-40 ft. wide
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Sun Exposure
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Full, partial
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Soil Type
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Moist but well-drained
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Are yellow magnolia trees rare?
How big does a yellow magnolia tree get?
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Hardiness
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5 – 8
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Exposure
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Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Season of Interest
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Spring (Early, Mid)
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Height
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20′ – 30′ (6.1m – 9.1m)
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Spread
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12′ – 20′ (3.7m – 6.1m)
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How fast does a yellow bird magnolia grow?
What is a yellow bird Magnolia?
A unique and interesting hybrid, the Yellow Bird Magnolia, also known as yellow tulip tree, produces an abundance of tulip-like flowers with bright yellow petals that are perched upright at the ends of almost every stem on the tree in spring.
How tall does a yellow bird Magnolia grow?
A yellow bird magnolia can grow to a height of 20 to 40 feet. Most mature trees have a canopy that starts about 5 feet from the ground. A yellow bird magnolia is a cold-hardy option for a flowering tree. It presents yellow blooms in late spring and attractive foliage through the growing season.
How long does a yellow bird magnolia flower?
The blooms of the yellow bird magnolia typically last for about three weeks. The flower buds emerge at the same time as the tree’s foliage. Once the tree begins to flower, the buds open in rapid succession. How fast do yellow bird magnolias grow?
Are yellow-flowered magnolias rare?
While yellow-flowered Magnolias used to be a rarity, many hybrid Magnolias (about 60) are now available in various shades of yellow, ranging from soft to bright yellow, to golden-yellow, or even to orange-yellow. Among these hybrids are Magnolia cultivars that gardeners particularly favor for their spectacular yellow flowers.