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Burgundy Star Magnolia

Magnolia × 'JURmag4' 'Burgundy Star'

The Story

Plant Bio

Magnolias are ancient flowering plants characterized by large, fragrant blossoms and simple, alternate leaves. Most species thrive in fertile, well-drained, acidic soils and develop deep, fleshy root systems that resent disturbance.

'JURmag4', marketed as Burgundy Star, is a narrow, fastigiate deciduous cultivar selected for its upright columnar habit and deep claret-red, star-shaped flowers. The blooms measure up to five inches across and emerge from late winter into early spring before the large, bronze-tipped leaves unfold.

Uses & Benefits:

Produces large, deep claret-red, star-shaped flowers on a highly compact, columnar frame that fits tight garden spaces.

Maintains a narrow, upright habit naturally, eliminating the need for regular pruning to control its size.

Provides early-season nectar and pollen for emerging native bees and other beneficial insects.

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

132"

Width

48"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived

Native To

Oceania (New Zealand hybrid)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Late winter – Early spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with deep, organically rich, well-drained soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the top of the root ball sits slightly above the surrounding soil grade.
Backfill with native soil amended with compost, tamping gently to remove air pockets, and water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Apply a three-inch layer of organic mulch over the root zone, keeping it several inches away from the trunk to prevent bark rot.

Pro Tip

Prune immediately after the spring bloom finishes; cutting back in fall or winter removes the dormant flower buds and sacrifices the entire next season's display.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Water regularly during dry spells to maintain consistent soil moisture and prevent leaf scorch.
Protect young trees from deer and rabbits using physical wire cages around the trunk.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support new growth.

Don't

Do not plant in low-lying areas or heavy clay where water pools, as wet soil causes root rot.
Do not prune late in the season or during winter, which removes the next spring's flower buds.
Do not allow the soil to dry out completely, especially during the first two growing seasons.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Specimen TreeNarrow BordersCourtyard GardensFoundation PlantingScreening

Companion Plants

Helleborus Hosta Heuchera Narcissus

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Burgundy Star Magnolia questions

What zones can Burgundy Star Magnolia grow in?

Burgundy Star Magnolia is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Burgundy Star Magnolia deer resistant?

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

When does Burgundy Star Magnolia bloom?

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

Does Burgundy Star Magnolia need full sun?

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