Very fragrant pink buds open to white flowers. It will grow 20 to 30 feet tall and wide. It is deciduous. These early blooms can be damaged by early frost. Late-blooming cultivars are available, although the flowers may not be as showy.
Leaves are medium green on upper and lower sides.
They show little color change in fall. It works well in groupings. Although it prefers full sun, it tolerates partial shade. As with star magnolia, avoid planting this tree in southern exposures, as bloom will occur earlier. Ideal soil conditions are as previously noted.