TODAY'S EDITION OF ASK THE ARBORIST SAUCER MAGNOLIA TREES

Today’s edition of “Ask the Arborist” focuses on an early spring flowering tree.  Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia x soulangiana).  Pictured here is a Saucer Magnolia almost in full bloom.  A closer photo reveals additional buds not completely open meaning additional brilliant spectacular white flowering displays for days ahead.  Many

Saucer Magnolias in Newtown, CT had the bad misfortune of opening early and were caught in various stages of bloom last Tuesday, April 15th when Newtown was blanketed with about one inch of snow.  Not to worry, Saucer Magnolias are quite resilient and take the early cold in stride.  The Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia x soulangiana) is a cousin of the famous Southern Magnolia (Magnolia x grandifola) with its evergreen leaves and large showy Magnolia blossoms in May.  The Southern Magnolia enjoys a warmer climate and makes its best growth in the Deep South.

Literature cited from the “University of Florida IFAS Extension” Saucer Magnolia is a multi-stemmed tree with a maximum height of around 25 ft. Idea growing area is in the USDA hardiness zone 5A – 9A making it an excellent planting selection for our 6A USDA hardiness zone.  Saucer Magnolia is a specimen type ornamental tree used around patios or decks.  It rarely is located growing wild in the open forest.  As noted earlier, it has showy spring white flowers of white, pink / cream color and also has an interesting fall character of yellow.  The multi-stemmed trunks support an alternate branch pattern and the wood is strong with good resistance to storm breakage.

Recommended planting locations are sunny spots where it can develop a symmetrical crown.  Best growth is with moist but porous soil with a slight alkaline ph of 6.8 – 7.7.  I would recommend locations not subject to heavy de-icing salts.

Generally Saucer Magnolias are free of insect or disease problems. However, there have been cited cases of Magnolia scale (which can be controlled with horticulture oil), bacteria leaf spot (control by raking up infected leaves) and several canker type diseases that can kill limbs (control by removing dead infected limbs).  Overall by maintaining proper tree health you will receive many years of service from your Saucer Magnolia..

As with all your trees, take time out to contact your local licensed arborist to evaluate the condition of all your trees on an annual basis.

Have Tree Questions? Post here and stay tuned to upcoming editions of “Ask the Arborist”.