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Magnolia Bushes

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There are about 80 different species of Magnolia that are native to the eastern United States and southeastern Asia. The new offerings of Magnolias available have been developed to display different flower colors, updated sizes, and plant structures.

Magnolias have some of the most colorful and impressive blooms in the plant world. A mature magnolia in full bloom is a most memorable and impressive sight! Shrub Magnolias offers all of the attributes of larger tree-type Magnolias but in a much smaller package!

These Magnolias are defined as shrubs because of their smaller size and multi-branched, multi-trunked forms versus a tree-form Magnolia that typically has a single straight trunk.

Shrub Magnolias will fit in many yards or landscapes where early spring blooms are desired and space is at a premium. Shrub Magnolias are easy to care for and have very few pests to contend with, are easy to maintain, and easy to grow.

Deciduous Magnolias usually flower before the leaves emerge which provides an unfiltered look at the gorgeous blooms each spring!

How To Use Magnolia Shrubs In Your Garden

The scented blooms and early spring color mean Shrub Magnolias are a must-have for planting near seating areas, by your front entry, and outside a window you frequently open in the spring.

Use a single tree as a special focal point a little ways away from your home’s foundation or on a raised berm in your front yard! Why not use one near the front door to add major style points and curb appeal? The lush look easily softens up the corner of your garage to ease the transitions from front to side yard.

These great little Magnolia can be used to face an evergreen windbreak or screen. You'll soften the look, and the evergreens will really set off the massive flower display! Or create the hedge itself out of shrub Magnolias! Keep their lower limbs on the trunk for a pretty flowering screen! It won't take long at all for the branches to touch and create an excellent informal, untrimmed hedge.

Magnolia Shrubs also provide an easy, elegant solution for privacy throughout the growing season. You won't feel like you live in a fortress, but rather, you'll block eyesores with a carefree charm. Try a few shrubs planted close together behind your patio seating to gently screen out the neighbors.

Choosing The Right Magnolia Shrubs For You!

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Browse only for the Magnolia Shrubs for your Planting Zone using our USDA zone filters, choose sun exposure levels, or narrow the options by flower color, size, and more!

Check out one of these fan favorites:

  • The Little Girl Series Magnolias - Jane, Betty, Susan, and Ann Magnolias
  • Sweet Bay Magnolia Shrub - the look of a Saucer Magnolia in a smaller size
  • Royal Star Magnolia Shrub - can be a larger tree or shrub form
  • Genie Magnolia Tree - Dark pinkish-red blooms
  • Edith Bogue Magnolia Tree - large shrub or tree

Caring For Magnolia Shrubs

Planting times for deciduous Shrub Magnolias are in either fall or early spring. Autumn is the preferred time in the South while Northern gardeners can wait until spring.

Most Magnolias do best in full sun, especially in Northern climates but prefer some afternoon shade in hotter climates.

  • Magnolia does best in organically rich well-drained soil that is slightly acidic
  • Plant in raised gardens or berms if you have poor drainage
  • Provide a 3-4 inch deep layer of mulch over the root system
  • Prune these shrubby trees right after they flower
  • Water new plants regularly using the Finger Test to help them get established

Get your new Magnolias off on the right foot with these simple tips, planting advice in our #ProPlantTips, and with Nature Hills Root Booster!

Do Magnolia Bushes Need Protection?

Magnolia buds are covered in a fuzzy covering to protect them for the winter, but an unexpected or late frost, once the buds begin to open, can kill them and interrupt bloom that year. So it is important to choose a protected location away from low areas that allow cold air to pool and away from direct icy northern winds and storms.

Do Magnolia Bushes Lose Their Leaves In The Winter?

Most Shrub Magnolias are deciduous and will lose their leaves for the winter, however, a few are semi-evergreen or evergreen Magnolias that keep their foliage. Note, that even broadleaf evergreens shed old leaves in the fall while keeping their newer leaves year-round.

Why Order Magnolia Shrubs From NatureHills.com?

Family-owned and operated since 2001, Nature Hills Nursery prides itself on meeting the needs of customers with an ever-growing collection of online plants backed by our product guarantee and protected by Plant Sentry™.

All of our Magnolias are delivered safely to your home with instructions for planting, care, and maintenance, so you can order knowing you'll have exactly what you need! Plus plenty more information in our #ProPlantTips Garden Blog for extra support and inspiration!

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FAQS for Buying Magnolia Bushes Online

What is the difference between a Magnolia shrub and a Magnolia tree?

Magnolia shrubs are smaller and typically have a multi-trunked, bushier form, whereas Magnolia trees grow with a single, straight trunk and reach larger heights. Shrub Magnolias are ideal for compact spaces and offer the same beautiful blooms in a more manageable size.

When is the best time to plant Shrub Magnolias?

Plant Shrub Magnolias in the fall in southern regions and in early spring for colder northern climates. This timing gives the roots time to establish before temperature extremes. Always choose a location with good drainage and slightly acidic soil for best results.

Do Magnolia shrubs lose their leaves in winter?

Most Shrub Magnolias are deciduous and will drop their leaves in the fall, showcasing their beautiful branch structure during winter. Some cultivars, like Sweet Bay and Edith Bogue, may be semi-evergreen or fully evergreen in warmer growing zones.

Can Magnolia shrubs be used as a flowering privacy hedge?

Yes, Shrub Magnolias make excellent informal hedges. When planted in a row and left untrimmed, their dense branching and early spring flowers create a charming living screen that provides both privacy and seasonal color.

How do I care for a Magnolia shrub to ensure healthy growth?

Magnolia shrubs thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained, slightly acidic soil. Add a layer of mulch to retain moisture, water regularly during establishment, and prune after blooming to maintain shape and encourage future flowering.

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