
What is the lifespan of a little gem Magnolia?
The Little Gem is recognized for its prolific flowering that lasts 6 months of the year, which lasts from May through October. It can flower in two to three years. The Little Gem Magnolia produces large fragrant creamy white saucer shaped flowers that are 8 inches wide.
How far apart should you plant Magnolia little gems?
The Magnolia “Little Gem” tree should be planted on soil with pH 5.6 to 6.5 and should be spaced between 8 feet to 12 feet between each other. Many homeowners tend to plant trees not only as a windbreak but to create a bit of privacy. Moreover, how long do magnolia little gems take to grow?
Does Magnolia little gem have invasive roots?
The roots of Little Gem Magnolia have a characteristic of wide-spreading, stretching from trunk to a span of four times the umbrella diameter but they’re non-invasive. Uses of Little Gem Magnolia Little Gem Magnolia is a popular ornamental plant choice due to its dwarf size and low keeping excellent flashy flowers and its enjoyable fragrance.
How big do magnolia trees get?
With a sparkling white color, the Magnolia’s flowers give it all a charm in summer. A Magnolia can grow up to 60 ft tall and 9 to 18 ft wide. However, there are also smaller varieties that can be planted in the garden. How tall can magnolias grow?

How much room does a little gem magnolia need?
Planting: Plant your Little Gem Magnolia in an area that receives full to partial sunlight (4 to 8 hours of sunlight per day). Although Little Gem Magnolias prefer full sun, they can tolerate shade. For a privacy screen or hedge, plant your Little Gem Magnolias about 5 feet apart.
How far apart do you plant little gem magnolia?
Space your trees 5 feet apart for a quick screen, or up to 8 feet apart if your need is not so urgent. A wider spacing is also more suitable if you want a screen that is over 12 feet tall, as the trees need more width available to reach their full height.
Where should you plant a little gem magnolia?
Full sun is the best choice for the Little Gem Magnolia tree, but it can tolerate some shade. Little Gem Magnolia trees are very adaptable. They can tolerate clay, sand, and loam soil as long as it drains well. This tree does prefer a moist soil especially when newly planted.
How far do little gem magnolia roots spread?
The root system is wider spreading than most other trees, extending from the trunk a distance equal to about 4 times the canopy width. This makes it very difficult to save existing Magnolia trees on construction sites, and makes transplanted trees recover slowly.
How long does it take for a little gem magnolia to mature?
two to three years'Little Gem' is a dwarf cultivar of the Southern Magnolia and it can potentially grow to heights of 25-30 feet with a spread of 10 to 12 feet. Another advantage the 'Little Gem', besides size, is it flowers within two to three years whereas the parent may take up to twelve years to produce flowers.
Are Little Gem magnolia roots invasive?
The roots of Little Gem Magnolia have a characteristic of wide-spreading, stretching from trunk to a span of four times the umbrella diameter but they're non-invasive.
Are Little Gem magnolia trees messy?
You could also try planting a Little Gem Magnolia, also known as the dwarf Southern magnolia. It will still create the same mess as its larger relative, but on a much smaller scale.
Can you keep magnolia little gem small?
Should you be looking to keep your little gem magnolia very small, it is recommended to prune regularly during the first few years of growth. This will train your little gem into a smaller shape.
How do I thicken my little gem magnolia?
Tip pruning is the method widely recommended and the best time to do this is from spring to early summer when the plant is in active growth. This simply means that the tips of each stem are pinched out. Shaping is simple, its about maintaining the plant at a desired height and width by cutting back each year.
How long do little gem magnolia trees live?
Magnolia trees can live from 80 to 120 years. Most magnolia trees live from 80 to 100 years. However, with proper care, attention, and variety, they can live to be quite old. The trees also continue to grow and bloom as they age, making them a great addition to any yard.
How far should a magnolia tree be from a house?
about 50 feet awayDetermining how far from your home you should plant a magnolia tree is no easy feat. However, it's best to measure about 50 feet away from your house to ensure you don't run into trouble as the tree matures.
What can I plant under a Little Gem magnolia tree?
Underplanting magnolias with shade-loving plants is an easy way to ensure success, and popular companion plants include clivias, peace lilies, hydrangeas and blue ginger (Dichorisandra thyrsiflora).
How do you plant a little gem magnolia tree?
Plant in well-drained, acidic soil and in full sun or partial shade. Make sure the tree has plenty of room to grow to its full size. Mulch creating a 3-4 inch layer at base but leave room at the trunk of the tree. Water regularly for the first few years until your magnolia is established.
What goes well with Little Gem magnolia?
Flowering dogwood, birch and maple trees make good neighbors for the "Little Gem" magnolia.
How can I speed up the growth of my magnolia tree?
Mulching under a magnolia tree can spur it to grow quickly by keeping the roots cool and moist during hot summer months. For best results, spread straw, shredded bark or another organic mulch in spring, extending the mulched zone a foot or two past the tree's root zone; renew the mulch as it breaks down.
How do you plant little gems?
Planting Little Gem Lettuce Typically they like to be 4-6 seeds per inch, spread out in rows that are 2” – 4” apart. Plant the seeds at a shallow depth of about ⅛” – ¼” deep. They need to be just barely covered by the soil. Keep the soil moist and cool in order for good lettuce seed germination.
What is a little gem magnolia tree?
This small tree is a pretty addition to your landscape plan. This tree stands out as a specimen or focal tree in a small yard or large garden or bed. Plant the Little Gem Magnolia in groups of 3 or 5 for a striking look your friends and neighbors will admire! If you are looking for a unique evergreen windbreak or privacy screen with added beauty, look no further than the Little Gem. Because of its habit, low branching canopy, and dense evergreen foliage this tree makes an excellent privacy screen.
How tall is a magnolia tree?
This compact tree boasts fabulous fragrant flowers from spring through summer. Growing to about 25 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide this evergreen magnolia tree is a perfect option for those who love the traditional southern magnolia but don’t have the space. The Little Gem Magnolia is even pest, disease, and deer resistant as well as salt and pollution tolerant. Combining an evergreen tree, a flowering tree, and a shade tree all in one, this hardy tree will pack quite a punch in your landscape. Buy trees online and enjoy having the no hassle experience of having your Little Gem Magnolia tree delivered to your home.
Is Little Gem Magnolia a deer resistant tree?
The Little Gem Magnolia is even pest, disease, and deer resistant as well as salt and pollution tolerant. Combining an evergreen tree, a flowering tree, and a shade tree all in one, this hardy tree will pack quite a punch in your landscape.
Can magnolias be grown as a tree?
Because of her low canopy and naturally mounded shape this magnolia can be grown as a tree or a large shrub. With a shiny green top and cozy brown bottom, the leaves of this magno lia offer distinctive beauty and year-round appeal.
Can a little gem magnolia tree grow in full sun?
Full sun is the best choice for the Little Gem Magnolia tree, but it can tolerate some shade.
Is a little gem a good tree?
The Little Gem Magnolia tree is an excellent choice for the southern landscape and beyond. This versatile, flowering evergreen provides exciting year-round curb appeal. The gorgeous blooms will delight your senses with their sweet aroma and clean beauty.
What zone is Little Gem Magnolia?
All the charm of a southern magnolia in a smaller size, the little gem magnolia is a popular ornamental choice for people living in hardiness zones 6 through 10. It is often used as a standout landscape specimen, to add evergreen beauty near decks and patios, as a floral screen or hedge, and in large containers.
How fast does a sage tree grow?
This tree grows at a slow rate, with height increases of less than 12" per year.
How long are cone fruit clusters?
Yields cone-shaped fruit clusters up to 5" long with individual red-coated seeds.
When does a sage plant bloom?
Produces fragrant, white 4" flowers from mid-spring to summer, with heavy blooming in early years of growth.
How tall does a small magnolia grow?
‘Little Gem’ is a much smaller (dwarf) and slower-growing cultivar of the Southern magnolia or Large tree magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) that typically grows as a compact, upright, multi-stemmed shrub or small tree to 20’ tall over the first 20 years. Learn more about " Magnolia grandiflora ". Leaves are glossy green above and bronze-brown on the underside. lowers give way to spherical cone-like fruiting clusters (to 3-5” long) that mature in late summer to early fall, releasing individual rose-red coated seeds suspended on slender threads at maturity.
Where is Little Gem native to?
Intolerant of many urban pollutants. 'Little Gem' is native to moist wooded areas in the southeastern United States from North Carolina to Florida and Texas.
When do roses mature?
lowers give way to spherical cone-like fruiting clusters (to 3-5” long) that mature in late summer to early fall, releasing individual rose-red coated seeds suspended on slender threads at maturity.
What is a little gem magnolia?
Little Gem Magnolia is a dwarf mutant of the standard southern magnolia. Magnolia comes from the family of Magnoliaceae. Scientific Name: Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’. The size of the leaves and flowers of little gem magnolia are smaller in comparison to the southern magnolia. They’re also ordinarily known as ‘ dwarf southern magnolias ‘ ...
When does Little Magnolia bloom?
The tree is not well tolerant of the salt and should not be planted in coastal areas. It blooms from the month of May to July.
What is the root system of Little Gem Magnolia?
Root System Of Little Gem Magnolia. Little Gem Magnolia have a deep growing Taproot system with smaller roots expanding out from the taproot. Just as the plant, the root also takes time to grow and to spread fully. The roots of Little Gem Magnolia appear from the radicle of the embryo of the germinating seed.
What is the difference between a magnolia root and a tertiary root?
Primary roots always grow in the vertical orientation while secondary and tertiary roots grow in the horizontal orientation. The roots of Little Gem Magnolia have a characteristic of wide-spreading, stretching from trunk to a span of four times the umbrella diameter but they’re non-invasive.
What is a magnolia plant?
They’re also ordinarily known as ‘ dwarf southern magnolias ‘ or ‘ large-flowered magnolia ‘. The Little Magnolia grows into a pyramidal shaped plant which is thick and dark green due to which it is favoured for the hedge planting. The little gem magnolia is a preferred plant for patios, gardens or as a backyard plant due to its small height, ...
Where do the roots of Little Gem Magnolia come from?
The roots of Little Gem Magnolia appear from the radicle of the embryo of the germinating seed. They have one central root from which parallel root branches arise. Upon germination, the initial root that emerges from the embryo radicle is the principal cylindrical root, known as the primary root which stretches vertically earthward.
How tall is Little Gem?
The plant is a dwarf and slow grower. It can only reach up to a maximum height of 15 to 20 feet and 7 to 10 feet wide. Since little gem is a dwarf of a giant, it still looks big. They’re tolerant to sandy soil, clay soil, loamy soil but prefer a little acidic pH.
How big is a magnolia?
‘Little Gem’ will reach approximately 4m (12′) in height and 2.5m (8′) in width. It has a dense growth habit, glossy leaves with a rusty reverse, and creamy white, perfumed flowers in spring and summer.
What is a little gem tree?
Magnolia 'Little Gem' tree in situ. Magnolia 'Little Gem' flower in profile. <. >. Don looked at a new dwarf variety of the evergreen or Bull Bay magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). ‘Little Gem’ was developed by Warren Steed of Steed’s Nursery in North Carolina in the U.S.A. It has many of the attributes of its parent, ...
What color is the underside of the little gem?
Like the evergreen magnolia, the underside of each leaf on ‘Little Gem’ is a rich, reddish-brown.
Is Little Gem insect free?
None to speak of – ‘Little Gem’ is relatively insect and disease free.
What is a dwarf magnolia tree?
Also known as the dwarf Southern magnolia, this tree works well for smaller yards and in lawns, near decks and patios, in planters or as a privacy screen or hedge. "Little Gem" is a low-maintenance tree, tolerant of most conditions and suitable for U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 through 10.
How big do dwarf fig trees get?
Description. Depending upon conditions, this dwarf tree may grow up to 35 feet, although a more typical size of a mature tree is a height of 15 feet and a spread of 7 to 10 feet. "Little Gem's" leaves are a leathery dark green on top with rust-colored, hairy undersides.
What causes magnolia leaves to turn yellow?
Other fungal and bacterial diseases, like leaf spot, blight, scab and black mildew, hardly ever need chemical control, and the best treatment is to prune off affected branches and rake up and dispose of infected leaves. Magnolia scale is the most common insect problem and can be controlled with horticultural oil. If the leaves turn yellow, a lack of iron may be the problem, requiring iron chelate treatments. Leaf damage caused by excess mineral salts in soil can be treated with frequent heavy watering, as long as the soil drains well.
When do sage cones bloom?
The large, cream to white, cup-shaped flowers are showy and fragrant and give way to cone clusters from late summer to early fall that release small red-coated seeds. Although the tree itself doesn't need much maintenance, dropped flowers, cones and leaves can be messy.
Can you plant a little gem magnolia in the sun?
The tree only has a moderate salt tolerance and shouldn't be planted directly in coastal areas. The tree thrives in a variety of light conditions, from partial shade to full sun, although too much shade may decreases ...
Do magnolias grow to the ground?
In general, the best pruning philosophy toward "Little Gem" magnolias is the less, the better, allowing magnolia limbs to grow to the ground. Trees that are limbed up, where the lower two-thirds of growth is cut off, can lead to substantial leaf drop.
What is the color of magnolias?
These small trees present abundant blossoms of various colours, from white to purple, to pink and even yellow.
How to decide what Magnolia to grow?
Before you choose which cultivar to grow, you have to consider the full height of the plant when it is mature, the colour of the blooms and if the Magnolia is deciduous or evergreen. The size of the matured shrub will affect the container size you will plant it in.
What type of soil do magnolias like?
In terms of soil composition, Magnolias are not very fussy because they thrive in loam, sandy and clay soils . As long as the soil provides the correct drainage and it has enough nutrients, Magnolias will grow happily. In addition, it is important to note the soil’s pH to establish whether the plant will get the nutrients it needs to grow. Magnolias do well in alkaline to neutral soils but also even in slightly acidic soil. When growing them in pots I recommend using a John Innes potting compost with some grit mixed through to help with the drainage. The reason I recommend John Innes compost is because it is loam-based so retains more moisture than a standard multi-purpose compost does, plus it has long term fertiliser mixed in too.
How should I care for a magnolia plant?
If you live in hotter and dry areas (as I know some of you might live in the US) place your Magnolia in an area offering partial shade. For those of you in the UK, an open sunny position should be fine, although you can still grow them in a semi-shaded position too. The shade will help the plant roots remain cool, save moisture and prevent wilting which can be an issue when growing them in pots if you don’t keep on top of the watering.
Why do magnolias need to be monitored?
Young Magnolias need monitoring as they grow because it is easier for diseases and pests to attack. Once the tree establishes itself, there is not much work to do except for a little maintenance here and there. Some of the things you should consider doing for your Magnolia include:
Do magnolias need fertilizer?
Magnolias don’t require feeding often. When the new growth appears, use your preferred fertiliser in measured quantities to avoid overfeeding the plants, a general fertiliser will be fine. Traces of salt damage or leaf edge burns usually identify overfed plants.
Can magnolias grow in pots?
Many people are usually surprised that Magnolias can grow in large pots because these plants possess a wide root system, but there are a few varieties that will thrive in pots. My favourite Magnolia for growing in pots is actually the Magnolia ‘Stellata’. This is one of the smaller growing varieties but it produces lots of star-shaped white flowers and there is even a Magnolia Stellata Rosea that produces white flowers tinged with pink.
