To continue our trees of Minerva Park, this month we celebrate Magnolia stellata (Star Magnolia), a slow growing shrub or small tree which grows to 20’ tall and 15’ wide.
Introduced to the U.S. in the 1860’s, it is native to Japan. Fragrant, 3-4” white or pink star shaped flowers arrive in late winter/early spring and are often damaged by frost here in Ohio. It is the earliest of the deciduous magnolias to flower. After flowering, cone-like fruits appear and as they mature in summer, burst open to reveal large, bright orange seeds. The spring leaves emerge bronze, turn medium to dark green in summer and finally, yellow in autumn.
This magnolia grows best in full sun with moist, rich, neutral to acidic soil, but will tolerate clay soil and part shade, though it does not like extremely wet or dry soils and it is intolerant of urban pollutants. Plant in a protected site to prevent damage from frost and away from southern exposure which encourages buds to open prematurely. It has no serious insect or disease problems, but attracts pollinators and is a good wildlife food source.
Symbolic meanings follow this beauty in many cultures, from dignity in Japan to strength and resilience in the southern U.S.
In MP you can find a Star Magnolia in front of the community building and to the east, just to the south of the sidewalk. Take a walk amidst MP’s trees today…
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