As a gardening and landscaping expert , I can tell you that the star magnolia ( Magnolia stellata ) and the disc magnolia ( Magnolia x soulangeana ) are both beautiful trees that are often opt for their arresting blooms . However , there are some fundamental conflict between these two magnolia varieties .
1 . Blooms : The most obvious differing feature is the blooms . The principal magnolia flowers are smaller , typically mensurate only 4 to 6 inches in diameter . They have a star - like shape with multiple narrow petals that give them a delicate and graceful show . On the other hand , the saucer magnolia produces big blooms , ranging from 5 to 10 column inch in diam . These peak have a more rounded shape and are often consult to as “ saucer - like ” due to their blanket , receptive petal .
2 . Leaf Characteristics : Another noticeable difference between the hotshot and saucer magnolia lies in their leaf . Star magnolia leave are thin and longer equate to those of the saucer magnolia . They have a more elongated shape and a pointed tip . to boot , the leaves of the star magnolia tend to be less fuzzy or downy than the dish antenna magnolia leaves , which have a slight velvet - comparable grain .
3 . Flowering Time : While both magnolia varieties are known for their early spring blooms , there can be some edition in their flowering times . leading magnolia usually blossom slightly before than dish magnolia , often in late winter or early saltation . However , the exact timing can vary look on climate and specific acquire conditions .
4 . Flower Color : Both star and saucer magnolia tender a reach of peak colours , but there are some differences in the specific hues they produce . Star magnolia typically have white or light pink flowers , although some cultivars may have slightly deep shades of pink . discus magnolia , on the other deal , can display a wider compass of colors , include white , pinkish , purple , and even bi - colored blooms with different shades on the inner and outer petals .
5 . ontogenesis Habit : In term of outgrowth habit , the star magnolia be given to have a more compact and rounded build , stimulate it desirable for smaller gardens or spaces . It typically reaches a height of around 15 to 20 feet and circularize to a standardized width . Saucer magnolia , on the other hand , can grow larger and taller , reach pinnacle of 20 to 30 infantry or more with a spreading of 25 to 30 metrical unit . They often have a more subject and spreading form .
Personal Experience : In my own horticulture experiences , I have found that both principal and saucer magnolias are wonderful additions to any landscape painting . The star magnolia ’s delicate blooms and lissome folio make a graceful and unpretentious peach , while the disc magnolia ’s expectant , showy efflorescence make a bold program line in the garden . Each variety has its own alone magical spell and can be chosen based on personal preferences , available space , and desired color palette .
The wizard and dish magnolia trees have distinct differences in their bloom size of it , leaf characteristic , flowering time , prime gloss range , and ontogenesis habit . These variation allow gardener to select the magnolia Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree that best suits their specific needs and orientation .
Caroline Bates
