Japanese Magnolia (Magnolia liliiflora)

The lily magnolia or Japanese magnolia is a prime flowering tree in South Carolina yards. Before its leaves unfurl, this deciduous tree proudly displays striking saucer-like blossoms in pink, purple, or white hues. Growing to an average height of 8 to 12 feet tall, the Japanese magnolia is adaptable to various garden sizes. Summer brings forth its lustrous dark green leaves, and the distinct bark texture adds intrigue during winter.

For the best growth in North Carolina, it’s essential to plant the Japanese magnolia in a location that gets full sun to partial shade. Shielding it from the intense afternoon sun can be beneficial. It thrives in nutrient-rich, moist, and well-draining soil environments. Applying mulch at the tree’s base helps retain soil moisture and stabilize temperature, especially during the warmer months. While mature Japanese magnolias exhibit drought resilience, frequent watering in their formative years supports vigorous growth and consistent flowering. And make sure to prune the tree as needed after flowering.

Japanese magnolias are one of Park Circle’s first spring bloomers. Pink and popping, this tree can be found throughout the neighborhood. Some are original to home construction in the 50’s along with azaleas, and camelias. Extremely aromatic, blooms on branches can be cut, put in vase, and brought into home. The Liliiliflora arrangement will fill the room with it’s incredible sweet & spicy fragrance.

Magnolia liliiflora, also called lily magnolia or saucer magnolia, is a tall growing deciduous shrub, it is not a tree, and the trunk can trained much like a crap myrtle. Verbanica, which has pink flowers with white inside, is the common variety found in Park Circle.

They grow best in full to partial sun in well-drained, slightly acidic soil. In general, prefer loamy soil with lower pH. One can “train” liliiflora to have just one trunk, or two or three with pruning, best done after the tree flowers. Keep in mind they are slow growers. Consider purchasing a larger specimen from our local nurseries, keeping that slow growth in mind and for better growth in less-than-ideal soils.

Magnolia liliiflora is a small tree native to southwest China. English speaking countries first encountered this beautiful shrub cultivated in Japan’s ornamental gardens and thus, “Japanese” magnolia stuck as it’s common name.

This article authored by William Parker, owner of Cuts Grass, llc, a landscaping company, headquartered in Park Circle.