Northwest Blooms · Shrubs
Magnolia stellata 'Royal Star'
Royal Star Magnolia
- Family
- Magnoliaceae
- Height
- 10 ft to 15 ft
- Width
- 10 ft to 15 ft
- Flower color
- Pure white star shaped flowers with many narrow petals and a soft fragrance
- Foliage color
- Medium green leaves with a smooth surface and a slightly lighter underside
- Bloom time
- Late winter to early spring
- Light
- Full sun to partial shade
- Water
- Moderate; prefers consistent moisture and well drained soil
- Maintenance
- Low; prune only if needed after flowering to maintain shape
- Growing zone
- USDA zones 4 to 8
- Wildlife
- Pollinators attracted to early nectar and occasional bird shelter
About this plant
Magnolia stellata 'Royal Star' produces large, star-shaped white flowers with numerous narrow petals in early spring, opening from silvery buds before the leaves emerge. Narrow, lance-shaped leaves unfold a soft green, creating a clean, refined backdrop as they expand through the season. The branching structure supports the abundant blooms, which appear along bare stems and bring a bright, layered effect to the plant.
Originating from a species native to Japan, this cultivar reflects garden selection for fuller flowers and dependable early bloom. It is well suited to borders, specimen plantings, and entry gardens, where its early flowering and graceful form provide seasonal focus and structure.
Works well in
Sun Gardens · Foundation Plantings · Borders · Pollinator Gardens
Companion plants
Hebe · Flowering quince · Crocus · Matilija poppy · Mallow · Sweet William
Design tip
Position ‘Royal Star’ near an entry or other prominent viewpoint where its early flowering can become a seasonal focal point. Give its naturally broad form enough room to develop, and use lower evergreen shrubs around its base to provide structure and contrast beneath the white spring display.
Where to see it
This plant can be seen at the Oregon Monrovia Display Garden.
