Plant Patent 4145. All Magnolias are adaptable and vigorous, but 'Elizabeth' is the expert at handling temperature extremes! Surviving -20 degree Fahrenheit temperatures without injury, just months later it basks in 100+ degree heat and humidity over a long, sweltering season. And in early spring, before the new foliage emerges, this lovely tree is dotted with bright, fragrant yellow blossoms from base to tip!
The unusual clear yellow color of the blooms is as remarkable as their heavenly scent. 3 to 4 inches across, they are held straight up on bare branches, reminding me a bit of the old-fashioned tradition of setting candles onto the boughs of a Christmas tree. Very bright and abundant, they begin the Magnolia season in many neighborhoods.
This robust tree begins blooming at a very early age, and is easily pruned to desired shape -- including a multi-trunk form for increased horizontal beauty, or even a compact size for container growth! Left alone, it reaches 15 to 18 feet tall and 8 to 10 feet wide in 10 years. Mature height is 20 to 30 feet.
Very tolerant of urban pollution and a variety of growing conditions, 'Elizabeth' is ideally sited in partial shade and in somewhat acidic, well-enriched, well-drained soil. It appreciates protection from harsh winds, and does not thrive among competing roots.
