Cucumbertree Magnolia is a little known tree that has considerable landscape merit. It has a very regular, pyramidal form with a strong central leader as a young tree. It becomes rounded with age. The bright green leaves are about 5-8" long and half as wide. Fall color is tan or sometimes yellowish. The 2-3" flowers are a greenish yellow and emerge after the tree is in leaf. They are not very noticeable because they blend into the foliage. The fruit looks somewhat like a small, bumpy cucumber and turns pinkish red in late summer. Cucumbertree Magnolia makes an excellent landscape specimen tree for large areas.
Requirements and Culture:
Prefers a rich, well drained soil. Does not tolerate drought or very wet soils. Full sun or partial shade. Tolerates fairly alkaline soils. Transplant B&B in the spring.
Limitations:
No serious insect or disease problems.