Galaxy Magnolia tree (2-3 ft)
This hybrid 'tulip magnolia' has so many superior qualities it has been considered out of this world by its owners. For starters, it's stronger limbed than many magnolias and doesn't break easily in harsh winter weather. It blooms two to three weeks later than the gradifloras, thereby avoiding late spring frosts and a longer lasting color display. The sweetly fragrant, dark reddish-purple blooms can reach 8 to 10 inches in size and begin at an earlier age on the Galaxy.