Star magnolia is the hardiest of the magnolias.
It is a small tree or large shrub growing 20 feet tall and spreading 10 to 15 feet. The plant is intolerant of shade, root competition or dryness, and it grows slowly. Plant in a rich, porous and slightly acid soil. Star magnolia is hard to transplant and should be moved balled and burlapped when actively growing. White flowers are produced in spring before the leaves appear, even on young plants.