shrub

Stellar Ruby Magnolia

Magnolia stellar ruby

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

150 inches

Width

96 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Long-lived deciduous shrub

Native To

Garden origin (hybrid)

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Magnolias are ancient flowering trees and shrubs prized for their large, often fragrant, cup- or star-shaped flowers that typically appear in early spring before the leaves. 'Stellar Ruby' is a compact, shrubby hybrid noted for its unique, fragrant, ruby-red, waterlily-shaped flowers. It has a long blooming season, starting in spring and often reblooming in summer.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Provides a spectacular spring floral display with its uniquely colored ruby-red flowers. Its compact, multi-stemmed habit makes it a perfect fit for smaller gardens, and its tendency to rebloom in summer extends its season of interest.

Ideal as a specimen plant, in a mixed shrub border, or as an informal screen. Its smaller size allows it to be planted near patios, decks, and foundations where its beauty and fragrance can be enjoyed up close.

Magnolia flowers evolved to be pollinated by beetles. They provide pollen for these and other insects, contributing to the garden's biodiversity.

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Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with full sun to part shade and well-drained, acidic soil.
Amend the soil with compost or other organic matter before planting.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Set the plant in the hole so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
Backfill with amended soil and water thoroughly.
Apply a layer of mulch over the root zone, avoiding the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location protected from strong winter winds and late spring frosts to prevent damage to the beautiful early-blooming flowers.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Plant in acidic, organically rich soil.
Provide consistent moisture, especially in hot weather.
Mulch to protect the shallow root system and retain moisture.
Choose a planting site carefully, as magnolias dislike being moved.
Protect flower buds from late spring frosts if possible.

Don't

Don't plant in alkaline or heavy, wet clay soils.
Avoid deep cultivation around the base, as roots are shallow and sensitive.
Don't let the plant dry out completely.
Avoid heavy pruning; only prune to remove dead or crossing branches.
Don't plant in windy, exposed locations.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning specimen for small gardensFragrant accent near patios or entrywaysColorful informal hedge

Companion Plants

Rhododendron P.J.M. Helleborus 'Lenten Rose' Pieris japonica Azalea 'Karen' Heuchera 'Palace Purple'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Stellar Ruby Magnolia questions

What zones can Stellar Ruby Magnolia grow in?

Stellar Ruby 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 Stellar Ruby Magnolia deer resistant?

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

When does Stellar Ruby Magnolia bloom?

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

Does Stellar Ruby Magnolia need full sun?

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