1 named cultivar

‘Elizabeth’Elizabeth Magnolia

treeN. America Native

Cucumbertree Magnolia

Magnolia acuminata

Same species

1 named cultivar

‘Elizabeth’Elizabeth Magnolia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

720 inches

Width

480 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Medium

Humidity

Prefers moderate to high

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous tree

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Magnolia acuminata is a large, fast-growing deciduous tree native to eastern North America. It is one of the hardiest magnolias, featuring a pyramidal shape in youth that becomes more rounded with age. It is named for its unique fruit, an aggregate of follicles that resembles a small, warty cucumber, which turns from green to reddish-pink in late summer. It is also a key parent in breeding programs for yellow-flowered magnolia hybrids.

Uses & Benefits:

While its greenish-yellow flowers are not as showy as other magnolias, the Cucumbertree is a handsome shade tree with large leaves, a pleasing pyramidal form, and attractive furrowed bark. The unique cucumber-like fruit and golden-brown fall color provide late-season interest.

As a large, fast-growing tree, it provides excellent shade. The wood is soft and light, and has been used for furniture, pallets, and interior trim. It is an important species in breeding programs for developing cold-hardy, yellow-flowered magnolias.

This native tree is a larval host for several butterfly species, including the Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. The seeds, which emerge from the mature fruit, are eaten by a variety of birds and small mammals. Its large size provides nesting habitat.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with full sun to part shade and rich, moist soil.
The soil should be acidic to neutral for best growth.
Dig a wide, shallow hole, no deeper than the root ball.
Carefully place the tree, protecting the fleshy roots.
Backfill with soil and water deeply.
Apply a 3-inch layer of organic mulch over the root zone.

Pro Tip

Avoid disturbing the fleshy root system after planting; magnolias have sensitive roots and resent being moved or having their roots compacted.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide consistent moisture, especially when young.
Protect the root zone from soil compaction.
Allow the tree to grow to its full, majestic size.
Appreciate its subtle flowers and unique fruit.

Don't

Don't plant in dry, alkaline, or poorly drained soils.
Avoid pruning heavily; it heals slowly.
Do not plant in a small space; it becomes a very large tree.
Never pile mulch against the trunk of the tree.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stately shade tree for large properties and parksValuable native tree for naturalistic or woodland gardensSpecimen tree with interesting fruit and fall color

Companion Plants

Rhododendron Kalmia latifolia Fothergilla gardenii Asimina triloba Lindera benzoin

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Cucumbertree Magnolia questions

What zones can Cucumbertree Magnolia grow in?

Cucumbertree Magnolia is hardy in USDA Zones 4–8. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Cucumbertree Magnolia deer resistant?

Yes — Cucumbertree Magnolia is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Cucumbertree Magnolia bloom?

Cucumbertree Magnolia typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Cucumbertree Magnolia need full sun?

Cucumbertree Magnolia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.