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Dwarf magnolia

How to identify Dwarf magnolia (Magnolia laevifolia)

Dwarf magnolia, also known as Inspiration michelia

Dwarf magnolia is a compact evergreen shrub notable for its leathery, glossy leaves that are smaller in size and feature a distinctive copper hue on their undersides. In the period from late winter through spring, dwarf magnolia becomes particularly eye-catching as it produces an abundance of creamy white, aromatic blossoms that emerge from the plant's characteristic velvet brown buds. After the blooming phase, timely pruning is recommended to maintain its appealing shape and promote the growth of new buds that will result in future flowers. The flowers' strong fragrance and the dense floral coverage offer a stunning visual and olfactory experience during the flowering period.

Lifespan

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type

Plant Type: Tree, Shrub

Leaf Type

Leaf Type: Evergreen

Quickly Identify Dwarf magnolia

1

Leaves: Small, glossy, ovate to elliptical, dark blackish green with copper underside, 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) long.

2

Flowers: Cream-colored, 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) in diameter, with yellow stamens, emit cinnamon-like fragrance.

3

Buds: Furry brown, velvet appearance, open into large round clusters of blossoms, visually distinct.

4

Aroma: Strong cinnamon-like fragrance from flowers, enhancing sensory experience in the garden.

5

Blooming: Abundance of creamy white blossoms in late winter to spring, visually striking floral coverage.

Detailed Traits of Dwarf magnolia

Leaf Features

Dwarf magnolia's leaves are glossy and dark, with a distinct blackish green hue. They are ovate to elliptical in shape, typically measuring between 2 to 4 inches (5 to 10 cm) in length. The texture is smooth and leathery, contributing to their lustrous appearance. Veins are prominent yet subtle, creating a neat and orderly pattern. The leaf margins are entire, adding to their sleek and polished look. These leaves are a standout feature, easily recognizable by their unique coloration and finish.

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Flower Features

Dwarf magnolia flowers are characterized by furry brown buds that open into large, round clusters of cream-colored blossoms. Each bloom measures 1-3 inches (2.5-7.5 cm) in diameter and is distinguished by its yellow stamens. The flowers emit a cinnamon-like fragrance, making them particularly notable. These blossoms are crucial for identification due to their unique color, prominent stamens, and pleasant scent. Dwarf magnolia typically blooms during the spring, enhancing garden aesthetics with its visually and aromatically appealing flowers.

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Dwarf magnolia and Their Similar Plants

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Southern magnolia vs. Dwarf magnolia: What's The Difference?
A showpiece of the southern United States is the southern magnolia. This tree is known by its dark green oval leaves that are leathery in feel and its beautiful waxy flowers. The southern magnolia blooms are thought to symbolize dignity and nobility. White versions of the flower are commonly used in bridal bouquets to denote purity.
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Star magnolia (Magnolia stellata) is a small, slow-growing shrub native to Japan. Star magnolia is commonly cultivated in gardens and prefers deep soils with an acidic pH. Compared to other magnolias, star magnolia has much narrower petals and thus resembles twinkling stars.
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Cucumber tree (Magnolia acuminata) is a deciduous tree native to eastern North America. The largest varieties of cucumber tree grow in the southern Appalachian Mountains. This species produces sweet-scented, greenish-yellow blossoms that are reminiscent of a tulip. The tree is named for the cucumber-like seed cones that appear after its blossoms fall off.
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Sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) is deciduous tree in the magnolia family. Scientifically, it was the first magnolia species to be described in the genus. Sweetbay magnolia is grown as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks. Sweetbay magnolia is known for the fragrant vanilla scent of its flowers.
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Key Facts About Dwarf magnolia

Attributes of Dwarf magnolia
Plant Height
4 m
Spread
2.5 m
Leaf type
Evergreen
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Scientific Classification of Dwarf magnolia

Family
Magnolia
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Species
Dwarf magnolia (Magnolia laevifolia)
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