Magnolia 'Butterflies'

'Butterflies' is a deciduous hybrid cultivar Magnoliaceae (magnolia) family.  It is a cross between M. acuminata 'Fertile Myrtle' and M. denudata 'Sawada's Cream'.  Its claim to fame is its large, non-fading, canary yellow flowers, which some refer to as delicate.  Up to 5" across, the tulip shaped flowers will cover the tree and emit the scent of lemon oil.  The bloom period is approximately one week.  

The leaves unfurl after the flowers have completed their bloom period, can be up to 8" long and make a showy display in your garden, however, its fall foliage does not add any color to the landscape.

Although this tree can be planted in soil containing, clay, loam. and sand, its preferred site is one that has high organic matter.  Sites that have wet or poor drainage will result in poor performance.  

Choose your planting site carefully, once planted, this trees fleshy root system does not do well when disturbed.  Also choose a site with protection from strong winds and southern exposure, that can bring on premature blooming.  

Pruning or removing dead or dying branches should be done in the spring after its flowering has completed.  

Height: 15-20'

Spread: 10-15'

Light: Full sun to Part Shade

Zone: 5-9

*Info and photo courtesy of NCSU.