Little Gem Dwarf Southern Magnolia
Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'

A dwarf southern magnolia with smaller dark green foliage and a very compact narrow form. The large, glossy, evergreen leaves have rusty-brown undersides. Very attractive, large, white, fragrant blooms. A naturally small tree or large shrub perfect for small gardens. Truly captivating when trained as espalier against a wall or fence.

Average Size at Maturity Moderate growing; reaches 20 to 25 ft. tall, 10 to 15 ft. wide.
Bloom Time Late spring through summer; blooms later in cooler regions.
Design Ideas Although it is labeled as dwarf, this very columnar evergreen will reach over 25 feet tall at maturity. A great plant to separate multistory city homes on narrow lots without crowding them. Makes a great evergreen screen to block unattractive views, increase privacy or absorb sound. With its pretty flowers, it makes a great accent tree for small space. Ideal for town houses and condominiums.
Deciduous/ Evergreen Evergreen
Flower Attribute Flowers for Cutting, Fragrant, Long Bloom Season, Showy Flowers
Flower Color White
Foliage Color Green
Garden Style Asian/Zen, Contemporary, Cottage
Growth Habit Pyramidal
Growth Rate Moderate
Landscape Use Espalier, Firescaping/Firewise, Privacy Screen, Specimen, Very Wet Areas, Cutting Garden, Coastal Exposure, Urban Garden
Light Needs Full sun
Soil Needs Tree & Shrub Food
Special Feature Dwarf Plant, North American Native Selection, Tolerates Acidic Soil, Tolerates Wet Soils, Year-round Interest, Tolerates Road Salt
Water Needs Moderate
Watering Needs Water deeply, regularly; more frequently in extreme heat.
Companion Plants Camellia (Camellia); Indian Hawthorn (Rhaphiolepis); Hydrangea (Hydrangea); Viburnum (Viburnum); Hosta (Hosta)