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Key characteristics

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

Shrubs

Magnolia stellata 'Royal Star'

Royal Star Magnolia

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.

Light

Full sun to partial shade

Water

Moderate; prefers consistent moisture and well drained soil

Bloom time

Late winter to early spring

Find this plant

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.