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Butterflies Magnolia Tree

Magnolia x 'Butterflies'

  • Rare Double Canary-Yellow Blooms Transform Your Butterfly Magnolia Tree into Spring Magic
  • Cold Hardy: Thrives in Zones 4-9
  • Grows 20-30 ft Tall, 15-20 ft Wide
  • Deer Resistant, Pollution Tolerant
  • Stunning Orange/Red Fall Foliage
Regular price $11650
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Plant Size

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

  • Sunlight: For the most vibrant yellow blooms and the densest canopy, plant your tree in full sun, which means at least 6 hours of direct light. While it can handle partial shade, you will likely see fewer flowers and a more open, "leggy" growth habit.
  • Soil: This Magnolia thrives in rich, well drained soil that stays consistently moist but never soggy. If you are dealing with heavy clay, mix in organic compost to improve drainage, or plant the root ball slightly high to prevent "wet feet" and root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, provide 10 to 15 gallons of water per week to help the root system expand into the surrounding soil. Once the tree is fully established, it becomes moderately drought tolerant, but inconsistent moisture during hot spells can lead to leaf scorch or smaller flower buds for the following year. Aim for deep, slow soakings at the base of the tree rather than frequent light sprinkles.

Pruning Tips

Butterflies Magnolias bloom on old wood, meaning the flower buds for next year are set shortly after the current season's flowers fade. To avoid cutting off next year’s show, only prune immediately after the flowers drop in late spring. Think of this like a light grooming to remove crossing branches or dead wood, which improves air circulation and keeps the tree’s upright, pyramidal shape tidy.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer designed for acid loving plants in early spring before the new growth starts. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers late in the summer, as this encourages soft, new growth that will not have time to harden off before the first frost, leading to winter dieback. A layer of wood mulch around the base will also help maintain the soil acidity and moisture levels this tree loves.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50 $9.99
$50 - $99.99 $14.99
$100 - $149.99 $16.99
$150 - $198.99 $24.99
$199+ FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Specifications

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics Cold hardy, Fragrant, Flowering, Non-invasive, Thornless, Attracts pollinators
Hardiness Zone 4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight Full sun
Height 20-30 ft
Width 15-20 ft
Watering Needs Moderate
Preferred Soil Loamy, Peaty
Growth Rate Moderate
Blooms In Spring
Flower Color Yellow
Fragrant Yes
Suitable Space Indoors, Outdoors
Plant Name Magnolia
Botanical Name Magnolia x 'Butterflies'
Species x
Cultivar Butterflies
Class Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall does this tree typically grow?

  • Butterflies Magnolia typically reaches 15-20 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide at maturity. As a small tree or large shrub, it maintains a lovely pyramidal shape that works well in most landscape settings. You can prune it to keep it smaller or allow it to develop naturally into its full size.

What does a butterfly bush look like?

  • The Butterflies Magnolia produces bright canary-yellow double blooms that resemble butterflies in flight each spring before leaves emerge. This small tree or large shrub features 10-16 tepals per flower with a sweet lemony fragrance. Shop at Nature Hills for this stunning pollinator magnet.

Does the Butterflies Magnolia need full sun, partial shade, or full shade to thrive?

  • The Butterflies Magnolia thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions. This adaptable tree performs best with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal flowering. Plant it where it receives morning sun and some afternoon protection in hotter climates.

Are Butterflies Magnolia Trees deer resistant?

  • Butterflies Magnolia trees are not considered deer resistant. Deer may browse the foliage and buds, especially in areas with high deer pressure. For best protection, consider fencing young trees or using deer deterrent sprays during establishment.

Does the Butterflies Magnolia require any special fertilizer or soil amendments?

  • Butterflies Magnolia thrives in average, well-draining soil without special fertilizers. Like most magnolias, it prefers slightly acidic to neutral pH and benefits from organic mulch. Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring if desired, available at naturehills.com.

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