Umbrella Magnolia
Magnolia tripetala
This beautiful native magnolia has leaves that can grow up to 24″ long! Clustered at the end of its stems, the leaves give the impression of forming umbrellas. Its bowl-shaped, 6″-10″ white blooms emerge in spring and are slightly unpleasant to smell – they are best left to the beetles which pollinate this plant. Fall interest includes 4″ long cones full of bright red fruit, and in winter the bark is thin and smooth.
Conditions: moist, well-drained soils away from strong winds; shade (except for deep shade) to full sun if in moist areas
Size: 20′ – 30′ (occasionally 45′) tall; 15′ – 30′ wide
Zone: 5 – 8
Wildlife Value: Flowers attracts pollinating beetles and flies; cover plant for feral gardeners
