Magnolia 'Butterflies'

Considered one of the finest of all yellow-flowered Magnolias, it is certain to become a classic! Abundant 4- to 5-inch, rich yellow double flowers, each with 10 to 15 petals, are held upright like butterflies alighting on branches. Developed as a cross between M. acuminata 'Fertile Myrtle' and M. denudata 'Sawada's Cream,' Butterflies is renowned for its lovely flower color, a deep yellow in cool climates and lighter with more heat. The flowers have a slightly twisted form that is lovely, really resembling the butterflies for which they are named! They arise in very late spring, which protects them from frosts in cool-spring climates. Magnolias are spectacular both for their chalice-shaped flowers and bold foliage. They are truly plants for the connoisseur. Pollution tolerant, they make superb specimens, even in the urban landscape. The aroma of lemon oil is emitted when in bloom. As containerized plants, transplant shock from root disturbance is minimized. Plant in a location protected from wind and free of competing roots. Moisture-retentive, acidic, organically enriched soil is preferred, as is full sun to partial shade. Magnolias need good soil in protected areas.Growing in neat, pyramidal form, Butterflies is 16 feet tall and 10 feet wide in 14 years, eventually reaching 15 to 20 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide.