denudata(lilytree), both native to Japan.
It is sometimes called tulip magnolia, but it is not to be confused withtulip trees.
This tree does best in full sun with moist, acidic, well-draining soil.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Read on for our care and growing guide.
Saucer Magnolia Care
Saucer magnolia’s rope-like tree roots grow horizontally to provide stability.
Light
Saucer magnolia treesprefer full sun, but they can tolerate partial shade locations.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Water
During the first year of planting,water the tree deeplyand frequently.
Afterward, saucer magnolias need irrigation only when the weather is dry.
Once established, these trees have a moderately good drought tolerance.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
For the amount to use, follow product label instructions.
Types of Saucer Magnolia
Pruning
Saucer magnolia trees often produce multiple stems.
To shape it into a tree form, prune away all but one central trunk.
The Spruce / Kara Riley
Such drastic pruning should be done while the tree is still young.
You may also shape the crown in later years by pruning lightly after the flowering period.
Do not prune adult trees as you would a sapling.
The Spruce / Maegan Gindi
Only remove dead and damaged limbs.
Call acertified arboristas needed.
It is common for these trees to grow with rather extreme leans.
The Spruce / Maegan Gindi
It’s best to take cuttings in summer after the buds have set.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Saucer magnolia doesn’t suffer from many severe insect or disease issues.
Prune away and destroy canker-damaged branches during dry weather, sterilizing the pruning shears after each cut.
The Spruce / Maegan Gindi
How Long Does Saucer Magnolia Bloom?
Saucer magnolia flowers may continue to bloom after the leaves emerge, usually blooming for one to two weeks.
Magnolias started as cuttings often grow large enough to produce flowers within two to three years.
Gratysanna / Getty Images
What Do Saucer Magnolia’s Flowers Look Like?
The spectacular, refreshing display makes the clean-up worth it.
Common Problems With Saucer Magnolia
Saucer magnolia is a hardy plant that presents few problems.
However, fungal diseases might be an issue.
Unfortunately, once symptoms occur the tree’s poor prognosis is certain though the decline could be slow.
If the damage is done and is severe, you may need to protect the wounds with tree wrap.
A professional arborist can better assess the damage.
There are many other magnolia types available, including the popularJane Magnolia.
The saucer magnolia is a deciduous tree so it will lose leaves annually.
Leaves will turn yellow and drop in the late fall and early winter as the tree goes dormant.
Magnolia - Leaf Spots.
Pacific North West Pest Management Handbooks, Pacific North West Extension.
Magnolia - Magnolia spp.
University of Florida Plant Pathology.
Clemson University Cooperative Extension Home and Garden Information Center.
Why are the leaves on my magnolia turning black and attracting wasps?University of New Hampshire.
