'Little Gem' Magnolia grow from 15' to 20' tall and produces an abundance of wonderfully fragrant, large white flowers from early Summer through late Fall. The evergreen, lustrous leaves are about 1/3 the size of the species. Growth habit is upright and bushy, to 20' tall and 10' wide. Useful in landscape beds and islands as an evergreen screen, hedge, buffer or background, or in small groups or as a specimen. Useful in foundation plantings as a corner plant, or as espalier (grown flat against an open wall). Easy to grow in moist, well-drained soils, but also drought tolerant.

Height: 15' to 22' Landscape Usages: Landscape Beds, Foundation, Outdoor Living Areas, Garden Pond, Background, Focal Point Specimen, Hedges, Entryway, Espalier, Buffer / Screens, Woodland Border, Small Groups, Property Value Sun Exposure: Full Sun, Mostly Sun, Partial Shade, Morning Sun, Afternoon Sun Resistant To: Deer Resistant, Heat, Disease, Drought, Insect Soil Needs: Ammended Clay, Average, Well-Drained, Humusy, Moist / Well Drained Theme Gardens: Cottage, Japanese, Woodland/Shade

Spread: 8' to 10' Attracts: Songbirds / Birds, Visual Attention, Wildlife Characteristics: Foliage, Fragrance, Flower Fragrances: Fragrant Flowers Growth Rate: Fast Colors: White Foliage Color: Green Seasons of Bloom: Fall Blooms, Summer Blooms Type: Tree, Evergreen Water Needs: Low, Average USDA Zones: 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Magnolia 'Little Gem' (Dwarf Southern Magnolia) Feeding Instructions

Fertilize this tree in Spring, after new growth begins to emerge, and again in early Fall with a well-balanced tree fertilizer or organic plant food. When fertilizing a tree, broadcast fertilizer around and outside the perimeter of the canopy (limb-line) of the tree - this is where most of the feeder roots will be. When in doubt as to how much fertilizer to apply, refer to product label for application rates and instruction.

Magnolia 'Little Gem' (Dwarf Southern Magnolia) Pruning Instructions

Southern Magnolias require very little if an pruning when left to grow natural. They are tolerant of pruning and can be shaped into a screen or hedge of almost any form. With proper pruning, Southern Magnolia trees can also be used as an interesting espalier (trained to grow flat against a wall), or limbed up to form a tree.

Magnolia 'Little Gem' (Dwarf Southern Magnolia) Pest Instructions

This plant typically encounters very few pest or disease problems. If a pest or disease problem is identified, treat with an insecticide product, preferably one containing "Neem oil". Neem oil is a safe, triple-action product that can be used to control insects, mites and diseases. If your plant appears seriously stressed or diseased, consult with your local nurseryman, arborist, professional landscaper or local extension agent.