Magnolia x ‘Galaxy’ – Galaxy Magnolia
Botanical Name: Magnolia x ‘Galaxy’
The Galaxy Magnolia puts on an impressive, show-stopping spring display of bright pink blooms in mid spring. It is a small to medium-sized deciduous tree with a strong central leader, upright branches, and an oval, pyramidal growth habit.
Magnolia x ‘Galaxy’ is well suited for use as a specimen tree, as well as a shade or lawn tree. Its coarse texture works beautifully in a landscape when combined with finer textured trees, such as Japanese Maples or similar trees. This tree grows to a height of 30-40 feet and a spread of 22-25 feet. Galaxy Magnolia is a hybrid cross between Magnolia ‘Diva’ and Magnolia ‘Nigra’. It can live up to 60 years or more.
The bright pink flowers of the Galaxy Magnolia unfurl from deep pink-purple buds before the foliage. The blooms are upright and up to 8 inches in diameter. There are 12 petals/tepals that range in color from deeper pink/purple on the outside to light pink on the inside.
The leaves are large and mid-green in color, with lighter green undersides. They grow up to 8 inches in length and 4 inches wide. Their fall color is bright copper.
‘Galaxy’ is attractive to birds and butterflies. It is not particularly susceptible to any significant diseases or pests. However, this tree is not tolerant of urban pollution and therefore not suitable for planting in inner city gardens. It should be planted in a location protected from strong, cold winds which can damage the buds.
