Little Gem Dwarf Southern Magnolia – 3 Gallon Pot (1.5-2.5′)

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For those who have limited space but want the beauty and fragrance of Southern Magnolia, unlike its larger cousins, which grow to 50 feet plus in height, ‘Little Gem’ is one of the dwarfs in the family of Southern Magnolias, maturing to a height of a little over 20 feet and a width of about 8 to 10 feet. 

Though smaller in stature, there are big differences between Little Gem Magnolia and its larger cousins that make it one of those “must have” trees in gardens where it will fit and grow. No need to wait 5 or more years for flowers to come as Little Gem starts blooming at 2 years of age. You’ll also be happy to know that the large 6 to 8 inch diameter creamy white flowers have the same lemony-fresh fragrance that comes with all Southern Magnolias. The blooming period is much longer as well. Provided there is ample moisture throughout the season, Little Gem will start flowering as early as May and continue to the first frost late fall or early winter. There’s more. When planted where happy, Little Gem grows about two to three times as fast as its larger cousins. We’ve seen 2 feet or more in height added in a single growing season. 

Little Gem Magnolia is very easy to grow in most any average moist but well-drained soil, preferring one that is rich in organic matter. It grows well in full sun, part shade or all-day filtered sun. For best density of foliage and flowering, we suggest 4 hours or more of direct sunlight per day. Very low maintenance and never requires pruning. That said, stray branches can be pruned for shaping purposes.