Species

Magnolia acuminataCucumbertree Magnolia

treeN. America Native

Elizabeth Magnolia

Magnolia acuminata 'Elizabeth'

Same species

Species

Magnolia acuminataCucumbertree Magnolia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

600 inches

Width

420 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

4, 5, 6, 7, 8

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous tree

Native To

Hybrid

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Magnolia acuminata, the cucumber tree, is one of the hardiest magnolias, known for its large leaves and greenish flowers. It is a parent to many yellow-flowered magnolia hybrids. 'Elizabeth' is a celebrated hybrid from the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, prized for its large, fragrant, primrose-yellow flowers that appear in abundance before the leaves emerge in spring.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a breathtaking spring display of large, fragrant, primrose-yellow flowers on bare branches, making it a premier specimen tree for any garden.

Once mature, it casts pleasant, dappled shade during the summer months. Its pyramidal form is neat and attractive year-round.

The flowers provide nectar and pollen for early pollinators. The cone-like fruits produce red seeds that are eaten by birds and small mammals in late summer.

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with full sun to light shade and rich, moist soil.
Ensure soil is well-drained and preferably acidic to neutral.
Dig a hole three times the width of the root ball but no deeper.
Plant with the root flare at or slightly above the soil line.
Water deeply after planting and during dry periods.
Apply an organic mulch to protect the shallow, sensitive roots.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location protected from strong spring winds and late frosts to prevent damage to the large, delicate flowers.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Mulch annually to keep roots cool and moist.
Provide supplemental water during summer droughts.
Protect from late spring frosts if possible when young.
Site the tree where its beautiful spring display can be appreciated.

Don't

Avoid planting in alkaline or wet, heavy clay soils.
Do not prune heavily or in the late season; it blooms on old wood.
Avoid disturbing the roots by cultivating under the tree.
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
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Elegant spring-flowering specimen treeStunning focal point for large lawnsFragrant accent near a patio or window

Companion Plants

Rhododendron P.J.M. Helleborus orientalis Narcissus 'Thalia' Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' Fothergilla gardenii

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Elizabeth Magnolia questions

What zones can Elizabeth Magnolia grow in?

Elizabeth 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 Elizabeth Magnolia deer resistant?

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

When does Elizabeth Magnolia bloom?

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

Does Elizabeth Magnolia need full sun?

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