The Beautiful Pink and White Magnolia Tree

Magnolia trees are some of the most stunning ornamental trees you can grow, especially varieties with pink and white blooms. In spring, they burst into an abundance of fragrant blossoms that can take your breath away. If you’re looking to add a showstopping pink and white magnolia to your landscape, there are a few gorgeous options to consider.

Overview of Pink and White Magnolia Trees

Pink and white magnolia trees provide an eye-catching display of color in spring before the leaves emerge. The large blossoms have a soft, delicate appearance in shades of blush pink and creamy white. Many also have a lovely, sweet fragrance.

Most pink and white magnolias bloom in early to mid spring. However, there are also some late blooming varieties that avoid frost damage. The flowers usually last about two weeks, but can persist for up to a month in some types.

In addition to their spring blooms, magnolia trees also have handsome foliage The large, glossy leaves provide excellent shade in summer. Some varieties are evergreen, while others are deciduous

Pink and white magnolias range in size from small shrubs to large shade trees. With so many options, it’s easy to find one suitable for your landscape. They make stunning focal points and privacy screens.

Popular Types of Pink and White Magnolias

Here are some of the most popular pink and white flowering magnolia trees:

Saucer Magnolia

One of the classic magnolia trees, Saucer Magnolia has huge pink blooms up to 10 inches wide. The purple buds open to reveal pink petals that fade to white at the tips. This small tree blooms profusely in early spring.

Star Magnolia

Star Magnolia is a shrubby magnolia with abundant white blooms. The flowers have slender petals that give them a delicate, star-like appearance. They bloom in early spring before the leaves emerge.

Ann Magnolia

Ann Magnolia is a compact shrub with reddish-purple buds that open to reveal light pink flowers fading to white inside. It blooms mid to late spring, allowing it to avoid frost damage.

Jane Magnolia

Jane Magnolia is prized for its gorgeous pink double blossoms. The abundant blooms give the appearance of pink roses covering the bare branches in spring.

Betty Magnolia

Betty Magnolia has large, fragrant reddish-purple buds that open into pink tulip-shaped blooms. It blooms mid spring into summer. The multi-season flowers help avoid frost damage.

Pinkie Magnolia

Pinkie Magnolia is a compact variety that produces abundant showy pink blooms in late spring. It’s hardy and works well in small spaces.

Alexandrina Magnolia

Alexandrina Magnolia blooms with huge, fragrant light pink flowers that fade to white. The saucer-shaped blooms provide a spectacular display in early spring.

Leonard Messel Magnolia

Leonard Messel Magnolia has bicolor blossoms. The outer petals are rosy purple while the inside is creamy white with a pink blush. It blooms profusely in spring.

Lilliputian Magnolia

As the name suggests, Lilliputian Magnolia is a petite variety with abundant white and pink flowers. The small size makes it ideal for use in containers.

Pink Star Magnolia

Pink Star Magnolia lives up to its name with an abundance of huge pink star-shaped blooms in spring. The vibrant blossoms have excellent fragrance.

How to Grow Pink and White Magnolias

Planting

• Choose an area with full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Avoid planting magnolias in poorly drained sites.

• Dig a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball but no deeper. The top of the root ball should be level with the ground.

• Space magnolias at least 10-20 feet apart depending on their expected mature size. Give them plenty of room to grow.

• After planting, water thoroughly and apply 2-4 inches of mulch around the base. Do not allow mulch to touch the trunk.

Care

• Water regularly during the first year to establish deep roots. Provide about 1-2 inches of water per week.

• Feed annually in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Choose an organic or slow-release product.

• Prune after flowering to shape and remove dead wood. Avoid heavy pruning which can reduce blooms.

Problems

• Leaf spots and blights can be an issue in wet conditions. Improve airflow and avoid overcrowding.

• Magnolia scale can infest branches. Control with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap sprays.

• Cankers may occur on branches and trunks. Prune out affected areas and disinfect tools between cuts.

Fantastic Focal Points for the Garden

With their elegant blossoms and handsome foliage, pink and white magnolia trees make exceptional focal points in the spring garden. They come in a range of sizes to fit any landscape. For small spaces, compact varieties like Pinkie work beautifully. If you have room for a larger specimen, Saucer Magnolia makes a spectacular statement.

Place magnolias where you can admire the blooms from indoors and outdoor living areas. Use them as stunning accents along driveways, patios, and Entries. Group multiples together for an eye-catching display.

No matter which pink or white magnolia you choose, they are sure to be a showstopper that you will treasure for years to come. The gorgeous blossoms usher in spring in the most beautiful way.