Magnolia Galaxy

The Magnolia Galaxy was first created at the U.S. National Arboretum in 1963. It is an F1 hybrid that was the result of a cross between Magnolia liliflora Nigra and Magnolia sprengeri 'Diva’. In 1980, it became available for sale to the public. It quickly gained the coveted Award of Garden Merit from the Royal Horticultural Society. 
 
The Magnolia Galaxy, a small deciduous tree is treasured for its candy-scented, tulip-shaped purplish-pink to red flowers that measure up to 25 centimeters across. Unlike many magnolias that bloom in the early spring, Magnolia Galaxy blooms later in the season so typically is not affected by springtime frosts. The flowers first appear in mid-spring and persist on the tree into late spring. The Magnolia Galaxy tree has a narrow, upright growth habit that makes it ideal for small gardens. It has extremely strong limbs that do not readily break during windstorms, unlike some other magnolias. It usually grows to a height of 12 meters with a canopy width of 7 or 8 meters. It tends to produce a pyramid shape.  Although it has historically been grown as a single stem specimen, it is also available as a multi-stem tree. 
 
A deciduous magnolia, the tree’s abundant blooms appear before the foliage. The leaves are large and measure 9 centimeters long by 12 centimeters wide. They are a medium green on top and a lighter green on the underside. Prune the tree during the mid-summer months to remove any damaged wood and to maintain its size. 
 
Plant the Magnolia Galaxy in full sun for the best flowering. It will grow in partial shade but its flower production will be greatly reduced. You should also plant the tree in an area that has some wind protection so the flowers remain on the tree as long as possible and are not damaged by cold winds.  
 
Galaxy adapts to a wide range of soils but prefers a neutral to slightly acidic pH. Plant it in an area where its roots will not be disturbed. It has a fleshy root system that is easily damaged during cultivation. The tree prefers well-draining soil and does not like overly waterlogged conditions
 
Magnolia Galaxy is ideal for a small landscape or woodland garden. There is little doubt that it will become a focal point, especially when in full bloom.