The Plant Guide

Browse the Full Plant Guide

’Merrill’ Loebner magnolia

Magnolia  × loebneri ’Merrill’

mag-NO-lee-ah ex LOBE-ner-eye

This vigorous, erect tree grows from 20 to 30 feet tall and has star-shaped flowers with 15 broad white petals blushed with pink. The blossoms are fragrant and appear before the leaves in early to mid-spring.

CareGrow in moist, well-drained, preferably acidic to neutral soil in sun or partial shade; magnolias do not tolerate wet feet. Magnolia flowerbuds are susceptible to late-season frosts; shelter large-leaved species from windy locations. Prune in late winter or late summer to prevent bleeding of sap; prune minimally to maintain a healthy framework.

PropagationSow seeds in autumn or stratify to hasten germination. Root softwood cuttings in early summer. Magnolias can be layered in early spring, grafted in winter, and propagated by bud in summer.

ProblemsBacterial leaf spot, spot anthracnose, canker, dieback, butt rot, powdery mildew, anthracnose, fungal spots, weevils, snails, scale insects, thrips, planthoppers.

  • Genus : Magnolia
  • Plant Height : 15 to 30 feet
  • Plant Width : 15 to 30 feet
  • Zones : 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
  • Characteristics : Fragrant Flowers, Showy Fruit
  • Light : Full Sun to Partial Shade
  • Maintenance : Low
  • Moisture : Medium Moisture
  • Growth Rate : Moderate
  • Flower Color : Pink, White
  • Plant Seasonal Interest : Spring Interest
  • Plant Type : Trees

Related Plants

Related Articles

More From the Plant Guide

Winter Interest

Partial Shade

Browse the Full Plant Guide