Species

Magnolia stellataStar Magnolia

2 other cultivars

shrub

Centennial Blush Star Magnolia

Magnolia stellata 'Centennial Blush'

The Story

Plant Bio

Magnolia stellata, the Star Magnolia, is a slow-growing, multi-stemmed deciduous shrub or small tree. It is renowned for its profuse, fragrant, star-shaped flowers on bare branches in very early spring.

'Centennial Blush' has larger flowers that are soft pink in bud, opening to blush pink and fading to white. The flowers have an exceptionally high petal count, creating a very full, fluffy appearance.

Uses & Benefits:

An exquisite small tree that signals the arrival of spring with a breathtaking display of fragrant, blush-pink, star-like flowers. Its silvery bark and fuzzy buds provide winter interest.

Its slow growth and compact, multi-stemmed habit make it a perfect fit for small gardens, courtyards, foundation plantings, or even large containers.

As one of the earliest flowering trees, it provides a vital, early-season source of pollen for beetles and other emerging pollinators.

SpeciesMagnolia stellataStar Magnolia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

180 inches

Width

144 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

50+ years

Native To

Garden origin (parentage from Japan)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun to part shade and protection from winter winds.
Choose rich, moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil.
Dig a hole as deep as the root ball and twice as wide.
Gently place the plant in the hole, ensuring it's at the proper depth.
Backfill with soil, water well, and add a layer of mulch.
Water regularly during the first year of establishment.

Pro Tip

Site in a location protected from strong winter winds and late spring frosts to prevent damage to the early flower buds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Mulch well to keep the shallow roots cool and moist.
Provide supplemental water during dry periods.
Site carefully to protect early blooms from late frosts.
Amend soil with compost to create rich, organic conditions.

Don't

Don't plant in wet, boggy soils or dry, alkaline soils.
Avoid deep cultivation around the base of the plant.
Don't prune heavily or in late season; it blooms on old wood.
Don't plant in a windy, exposed location.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning early spring specimen plantFoundation planting for multi-season interestIdeal small tree for courtyards or patios

Companion Plants

Helleborus Narcissus Brunnera macrophylla Epimedium Galanthus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Centennial Blush Star Magnolia questions

What zones can Centennial Blush Star Magnolia grow in?

Centennial Blush Star Magnolia is hardy in USDA Zones 4–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Centennial Blush Star Magnolia deer resistant?

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

When does Centennial Blush Star Magnolia bloom?

Centennial Blush Star Magnolia typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Centennial Blush Star Magnolia need full sun?

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