Description: Dwarf variety of the evergreen magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), but only a quarter of its size. ‘Little Gem’ will reach approximately 4m (12′) in height and 2.5m (8′) in width. It has a dense growth habit, glossy leaves with a rusty reverse, and creamy white, perfumed flowers in spring and summer.

How close to the house can you plant a little gem magnolia?

Plant spacing Come out at least 5 feet or more from the house. If you’re planting a row of dwarf magnolias, place them 6 feet apartor, for a privacy screen, 4 feet apart is fine. For planting along a fence, position the tree about 4 feet out.

How tall and wide does a little gem magnolia get?

Mature Size The little gem magnolia grows to a height of 15–20′ and a spread of 7–10′ at maturity.

How do you keep a little gem magnolia small?

If you want to trim Little Gem, particularly if you’re planning to shape it into an espalier, it’s best to prune it when it’s young. Older trees require more extensive pruning cuts, which are slower to heal than smaller ones.

Are magnolia little gem roots invasive?

Root system – Although not regarded as invasive in most soils, it is still extensive and will spread further out than the dripline.

Can you plant a magnolia tree near your house?

The answer is yes and no. While the roots are not necessarily invasive, you may get magnolia tree root damage when the trees grow too close to your house. In fact, magnolia tree roots spread farther than those of most trees. If your house is within root range, the roots can work their way into pipes under your house.

Can magnolia roots damage house foundations?

However, magnolia tree roots are not considered as invasive and potentially destructive as some root systems. But their large spread can affect weak foundations. Large magnolia trees can indirectly lead to foundation problems if they shield a house wall from sunlight and create damp conditions.

Is Magnolia little gem fast growing?

The Little Gem Magnolia is the perfect tree for your yard if you are seeking a smaller version of the evergreen magnolia without sacrificing any of the usual beauty. The Little Gem reaches only 20-25 feet with a spread of 8-12 feet and has a slow growth-rate, approximately 1 1/2 feet per year.

Where should you plant a Little Gem Magnolia?

Full sun is the best choice for the Little Gem Magnolia tree, but it can tolerate some shade. Little Gem Magnolia trees are very adaptable. They can tolerate clay, sand, and loam soil as long as it drains well. This tree does prefer a moist soil especially when newly planted.

Are Little Gem magnolias messy?

Foliage of ‘Little Gem’ Southern Magnolia. The five to 8-inch-long, leathery, oblong, shiny leaves are shed as new foliage emerges in the spring. The large, slowly-decomposing leaves drop on the sidewalk or patio and are considered by some people to be messy or a nuisance to clean up.

Can you keep a magnolia tree small?

Magnolias can be deciduous or evergreen, and range in size from small shrubs to large trees. Magnolia trees and larger shrubs are ideal for growing as standalone trees, while the smaller varieties such as Magnolia stellata look good in a border or grown in a container.

Can you prune a magnolia tree to keep it small?

Although pruning magnolia trees is not necessary, young trees can be shaped as they grow. Trimming a magnolia tree when it is young will also improve the health of the tree and encourage more blooms. Mature magnolia trees do not recover from pruning and can sustain fatal wounds.

Can you prune a magnolia to keep it small?

When deciduous magnolias are young, prune out any weak growth or branches that spoil the overall shape. In subsequent years, only prune to remove dead and damaged wood, or to improve the shape. If you need to limit the size of your magnolia, aim to maintain an open crown with a uniform shape.

Are magnolias deep rooted?

They are shallow rooting plants and because of this the soil should not be allowed to dry out.

Are magnolia roots deep or shallow?

Magnolia Tree Roots There are many cultivars of magnolias in the Magnoliaceae family, varying considerably in size. So you may find a smaller magnolia cultivar that may be more suitable for your yard or near a patio. While magnolias have shallow roots, their roots are rarely the cause of damage to foundations.

Are magnolias shallow rooted?

Magnolias have shallow roots so they are unlikely to disturb underground services, pipes or pathways. Once established, they are resilient trees but still require regular water.