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Little Gem Magnolia

Magnolia grandiflora ‘Little Gem’

Original price $189.95 - Original price $1,899.50
Original price $379.90
$189.95 each
$189.95 - $1,424.63
Current price $189.95 each

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Will thrive in

Not suited for outdoor growing in

Select Size: 4-5 Feet 48-60" Tall
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The Little Gem Magnolia is a dwarf magnolia tree that grows 20 to 25 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide. It has sweet-smelling, white blooms and shiny leaves. It is easy to care for and does well in a variety of conditions, including full sun with some afternoon shade, damp soil, and even wet areas.

Little Gem Magnolia: Bring the South Home

Are you seeking a hint of Southern charm without the extensive footprint? The Little Gem Magnolia is your answer. This petite powerhouse delivers the iconic, heady fragrance of classic magnolias in a compact package. Imagine the delight of waking up to the sweet scent of blossoms without sacrificing precious yard space. Its evergreen foliage ensures year-round beauty, while its resilience to pests and diseases means more time enjoying your garden and less time tending to troubles.

  • Requires minimal care
  • Beautiful fragrant flowers
  • Drought tolerant and low water needs
  • Requires minimal maintenance

The Little Gem Magnolia is a stunning evergreen tree with deep green leaves, contrasting warm bronze-brown hues on the underside. Its rich color maintains throughout the year, creating a visual spectacle that changes with light angle. Unlike other plants, it remains vibrant even in cold winters, ensuring a vibrant garden.

Its flowers are a stunning display of nature’s artistry, featuring creamy white blooms with a subtle blush that deepens as they mature. Their generous size and soft texture make them a delight to behold. The fragrance, a blend of citrus and spice, is captivating and typically blooms from spring to summer, with occasional bursts in early autumn.

Little Gem Magnolia Planting Distance

Image demonstrates how far apart to plant Little Gem Magnolia

How to Plant Little Gem Magnolia

Choose the Right Spot

Select a location with full sun for abundant blooms, or partial shade in hotter climates. Plant in well-drained, acidic soil rich in organic matter.

Measure the Space

Little Gem Magnolias mature to a manageable 20-25 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide. Space them 15 feet apart for proper growth, allowing ample room for their future size.

Dig the Hole

Make a hole 2-3 times wider than the root ball of your Little Gem Magnolia and just as deep. Loosen the surrounding soil to encourage healthy root development beyond the planting area.

Plant It

Carefully remove your Little Gem Magnolia from its container and gently loosen any circling roots. Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root crown sits level with the surrounding soil. Backfill the hole and tamp gently to eliminate air pockets.

Water Thoroughly

Water your newly planted Little Gem Magnolia deeply, soaking the soil around the base until water runs freely from the drainage holes. Consistent moisture is crucial during the first year to establish a strong root system.

Mulch and Care

Apply a 2-3 inch layer of organic mulch around the base of the tree, keeping it a few inches from the trunk. Replenish mulch as needed throughout the year. While mature trees are somewhat drought tolerant, regular watering is still recommended, especially during dry spells.

Why Choose Little Gem Magnolia?

The Little Gem Magnolia is a charming, low-maintenance plant that delivers the magic of a magnolia in a manageable size. With its large, white blooms and resistance to pests and diseases, it offers a sensory experience that lingers throughout the day.

The evergreen foliage provides year-round vibrancy, adding elegance to the plant’s beauty. With its slow growth and resistance to diseases, the Little Gem Magnolia is a perfect addition to any garden, transforming it into a serene and Southern charm haven.

Sunlight

Your Little Gem Magnolia thrives in full sun, but can tolerate some afternoon shade, especially in hot climates.

Watering

Establish regular watering, especially during the first year, but reduce frequency as the tree matures.

Soil

Plant in well-draining, slightly acidic soil rich in organic matter for optimal growth.

Mulching

Apply a layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Fertilizing

Feed your Little Gem Magnolia with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring.

Pruning

Minimal pruning is needed, but remove dead or crossing branches in late winter or early spring.

Monitoring

Regularly inspect your tree for pests or diseases, addressing any issues promptly.

When It Arrives

Water your Little Gem Magnolia deeply immediately upon arrival to help it establish in its new home.

During The First Year

Water your tree consistently, especially during dry periods, to encourage strong root development.

After the First Year

Reduce watering frequency, but ensure deep soaking during extended dry spells.

Extra Tips

Apply mulch around the base to retain soil moisture and consider using a moisture meter to gauge soil dryness.

When It Arrives

Allow your Little Gem Magnolia to establish for several weeks before fertilizing.

During The First Year

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support growth.

After The First Year

Continue fertilizing annually in early spring, but reduce the amount applied.

Extra Tips

Avoid over-fertilizing as it can lead to excessive foliage growth and reduced flowering.

Tools You’ll Need

Gather clean, sharp pruning shears and a hand saw for larger branches.

Pruning Steps

Prune your Little Gem Magnolia in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.

After Pruning Care

Water your tree deeply after pruning and avoid fertilizing immediately to minimize stress.

Pruning Techniques and Tips

Make clean cuts just above an outward-facing bud to encourage new growth and maintain the tree’s shape.

How big does the Little Gem Magnolia get?
The Little Gem Magnolia is a compact variety that typically reaches a mature height of 20-25 feet and a width of 10-15 feet. Its slow growth rate of less than a foot per year makes it easy to manage in smaller spaces.
How much sun does the Little Gem Magnolia need?
While it thrives in full sun, the Little Gem Magnolia can tolerate some afternoon shade, especially in hotter climates. Consistent sunlight will encourage optimal growth and flowering.
When does the Little Gem Magnolia bloom?
Typically, the Little Gem Magnolia blooms in spring, offering a stunning display of fragrant white flowers. However, occasional blooms might appear later in the season.
Is the Little Gem Magnolia deer resistant?
Yes, the Little Gem Magnolia is generally deer resistant, making it a great choice for areas prone to deer activity.
Can the Little Gem Magnolia tolerate drought?
While it prefers consistent moisture, the Little Gem Magnolia is relatively drought tolerant once established. However, regular watering, especially during extended dry periods, is recommended for optimal health.
In which hardiness zones does the Little Gem Magnolia grow best?
The Little Gem Magnolia thrives in hardiness zones 6-10, making it suitable for a wide range of climates across the United States.
How do I prune a Little Gem Magnolia?
Minimal pruning is necessary for the Little Gem Magnolia. Remove dead, diseased, or crossing branches in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges.
Can I grow the Little Gem Magnolia in a container?
While it’s possible to grow the Little Gem Magnolia in a container, it’s generally best suited for in-ground planting. If container gardening, ensure the container is large enough to accommodate the tree’s root system and provide adequate drainage.

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