Magnolia 'Genie'
Best compact flowering tree for small garden landscapes.
Discover the Magnolia 'Genie', a compact flowering tree perfect for smaller landscapes. This stunning variety, a cross between _M. soulangeana_ and _M. lilliflora_, offers an extended bloom season, starting vibrantly in early spring and often repeating in midsummer. Its unique, tulip-shaped flowers emerge from striking blackish-red buds, opening to reveal dark maroon petals with lighter magenta tips and a subtle, sweet fragrance. Reaching a manageable 10-13 feet tall and 5 feet wide, 'Genie' thrives in full sun and well-drained soil, making it an excellent choice for borders or as a specimen.
$70.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
312
/ 1208
#312 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
-34%
Below average
Genus
Magnolia
/ Magnolia
Who it's for
- Urban dwellers with limited space for ornamental trees
- Gardeners seeking high-impact, vibrant floral displays
- Flower lovers wanting a longer, multi-season blooming window
Who should skip it
- Gardeners unwilling to manage specific soil pH levels
- Residents in regions prone to unpredictable spring freezes
- Impatient landscapers looking for rapid, immediate growth
Performance breakdown
Bloom Longevity
Extended spring flowering and midsummer repeats provide exceptional seasonal color.
Spatial Efficiency
Compact footprint fits perfectly into tight urban landscapes and small gardens.
Visual Impact
Striking maroon petals create a dramatic focal point in any yard.
Maintenance Ease
Fast growth and manageable size require minimal intervention for healthy development.
Wildlife Appeal
Fragrant blooms act as a reliable magnet for local butterfly populations.
Hardiness Range
Versatile performance across USDA zones five through nine ensures broad adaptability.
Key Specs
Genus
Magnolia
Variety
'Genie'
Mature Height
13 Feet
Mature Width
5 Feet
Light Requirements
Full Sun
Moisture Requirements
Moist, well-drained
Bloom Start
Early Spring
USDA Hardiness Zones
5-9
Features
- Spectacular dark maroon and magenta blooms
- Long blooming season
- Fragrant flowers
- Compact size for smaller gardens
- Attracts butterflies
- Easy to care for
- Repeat blooming habit
- Stable, attractive flower color
What customers say
Customers are thrilled with the exceptional bloom performance and rich color of the Magnolia 'Genie'. Many highlight the plant's robust quality, noting that even smaller specimens establish quickly and produce stunning, deep burgundy flowers early in the season. The compact, upright habit is frequently praised as a perfect design element for smaller garden spaces, offering high visual impact without demanding excessive room. This magnolia delivers significant aesthetic value, making it a highly satisfying purchase for gardeners seeking reliable, dramatic color.
Know before you buy
The 'Genie' is a compact variety that typically reaches 10 to 13 feet in height and 5 feet in width. Its narrow, upright habit makes it an ideal choice for smaller garden spaces or tight borders.
Yes, this variety is known for its repeat blooming habit. It puts on a vibrant show in early spring and often produces a second flush of flowers in midsummer.
For the best performance, plant your 'Genie' in a spot that receives full sun. It prefers moist, well-drained, loamy soil to thrive.
No, this variety has low deer resistance. If you live in an area with a high deer population, you may need to provide protection or use repellents to keep the tree safe.
While it is a compact tree, it is not specifically categorized as a container-grown plant. It is best suited for planting directly into the ground where its roots can establish in well-drained soil.
The Magnolia 'Genie' is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 9. This makes it a versatile option for a wide range of climates across the country.
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$71