Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem', known as the Little Gem Magnolia, is a compact, evergreen variety of the Southern Magnolia with a columnar to pyramidal shape that's well-suited for use as a specimen tree or in formal gardens. It boasts many of the same characteristics as its larger relatives, including large, glossy green leaves with rusty-brown undersides and the signature large, creamy-white flowers with a lemony scent.

Common Name: Little Gem Magnolia
Mature Height: Reaches about 4-6 meters tall, making it an ideal choice for smaller gardens or limited spaces.
Mature Width: Typically grows to about 2-3 meters wide, maintaining a relatively tight form.
Spacing: Plant at least 2-3 meters apart from other trees or structures to give the tree ample room to grow.
Foliage: Displays shiny, dark green leaves year-round, with a striking brownish-bronze underside that adds to its appeal.
Flowering Period: Produces large, fragrant white flowers measuring up to 20 cm in diameter, blooming intermittently throughout the year with a peak in late spring through summer.
Form/Habit: Upright and compact, with dense, conical growth habit.
Uses: Perfect as a feature plant, in small groupings, or as an elegant screen. It can also be grown in a large container.
Evergreen/Deciduous: Evergreen, providing a constant display of glossy foliage and sporadic blooms.
Tolerates: Resistant to pests and diseases. Tolerates urban pollution and is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Drought Hardy: Yes, once it's well-established.
Sun: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Performs best with morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter climates.
Maintenance: Low maintenance. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any damaged or diseased wood.

Additional Information

• Soil Preferences: Prefers rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Watering Needs: Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Reduce frequency once established, as the 'Little Gem' is quite drought-tolerant.
• Wildlife Attraction: Its flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and provide a source of food for birds.
• Propagation: Usually propagated from cuttings to maintain the characteristics of the cultivar.
• Pests/Diseases: Watch for scale insects and treat as necessary. Leaf spot and blight can occur but are less common.
• Landscape Design Tips: 'Little Gem' can be used effectively as a standalone specimen or planted in a row for formal screening. It also works well when underplanted with lower-growing shrubs or perennials that prefer partial shade.

The Little Gem Magnolia is a versatile and beautiful tree that offers year-round interest with its lush foliage and stunning blooms. Its smaller size compared to other magnolias makes it a fantastic choice for those with limited space who still want to enjoy the grandeur of magnolia flowers.