Magnolia stellata is one of the earlier trees to bloom in our area. Its blooms are a welcome sight after a long winter, and just as ornamental are the flower buds, looking very much like giant pussy willows. From the time the leaves fall off in autumn, until they open in early spring, the fuzzy buds add interest to the winter landscape . While most people are waiting for the flowers to appear in the spring, we appreciate the buds all winter long. As the weather warms and the days get longer, the buds swell and then open to white star-like (stellata) flowers. Some cultivars of M. stellata, of which there are many, have pink to pinkish colored flowers.
This small tree, with its buds, flowers, and deep green foliage, has something of interest most of the year. Magnolia stellata and most of its cultivars are readily available.
Fernwood Nursery & Gardens 