Jane Magnolia

Light Needs

Part Shade to Full Sun

(3+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

15-18 Feet

Mature Spread

15-18 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 8

Jane Magnolia blooms in late spring, displaying rich purple-pink flowers with pale interiors. The tulip-shaped flowers often open after other magnolias, so spring displays are less likely to be nipped by late frost. This deciduous shrub or small tree usually grows about 10 to 15 feet tall in many gardens, though older plants can reach closer to 20 feet with room. We recommend placing it near patios and front walks where the flowers can be appreciated before the leaves fill in.

This National Arboretum magnolia hybrid is part of the Little Girl Series, developed from Magnolia liliiflora 'Reflorescens' and Magnolia stellata 'Waterlily'. Jane Magnolia is valued for its compact, upright habit, cold hardiness, fragrant flowers, and occasional lighter rebloom in summer. Coppery new leaves mature to dark green, then shift toward yellow, bronze, or copper tones in fall. Plant it as a specimen, informal hedge, foundation tree, courtyard feature, or flowering anchor at the edge of a woodland garden.

Jane Magnolia Care

Plant Jane Magnolia in full sun to partial shade, with more sun inviting the strongest bloom display in cooler climates. It grows best in organically rich, evenly moist, well-drained soil. Neutral to slightly acidic soil is preferred. The planting site should be chosen carefully because magnolia roots are fleshy and do not appreciate disturbance after establishment.

Water deeply after planting, and make sure the root zone stays evenly moist through the first growing seasons. Established plants need supplemental watering during drought or extreme heat, especially when flower buds are forming. Fertilize lightly in early spring with a slow-release fertilizer for trees and shrubs if growth is weak or the soil is lean. Mulch over the root zone to conserve moisture and keep roots cool, leaving open space around the trunk.

Prune Jane Magnolia immediately after flowering if shaping is needed. Remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches first, then make light cuts to preserve the natural rounded form. Choose a location protected from strong winds, and avoid warm southern exposures that can encourage buds to open too early in spring.

Jane Magnolia Spacing

Space Jane Magnolia 12 to 20 feet from buildings, walkways, and other large shrubs, depending on the mature size you will allow. For an informal hedge or repeated flowering screen, plant 8 to 10 feet apart and let the branches overlap lightly with age. In containers, start young plants in a pot at least 20 to 24 inches wide with drainage holes, and plan to move them into the landscape as the root system develops.

Under Jane Magnolia, use Jacob’s Ladder and columbine so spring flowers can share the early season sun before the canopy casts more shade. Mountain laurel can sit nearby in acidic, well-drained soil, echoing the woodland feel while adding evergreen foliage. For the lower edge of the planting, creeping liriope offers tidy ground coverage, growing well in filtered light beneath the magnolia.

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