Genie Magnolia

Genie Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Genie')

Genie Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Genie'), is a compact deciduous flowering tree known for its deep burgundy to wine-purple blooms that open in mid spring. The flowers are upright and tulip-shaped, giving the plant a crisp, architectural look in bloom rather than a loose, sprawling display. Because it stays smaller than many magnolias, it is easy to fit into foundation plantings, courtyards, and tighter urban landscapes where you still want that classic magnolia moment. Planted where you see it from the house or along a main approach, Genie Magnolia creates a bold spring focal point without demanding a large footprint.

Distinctive Features

The standout trait is the saturated flower color, which can read as velvety burgundy and holds its richness well as the blooms open. Flowers are substantial for the size of the plant, and the upright form helps them stand out cleanly against the branch structure. After bloom, the plant leafs out into a neat green canopy with a naturally tidy habit that looks composed through summer. In good conditions it can also produce repeat flowering later in the season, adding another layer of interest beyond the main spring show.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade; best flowering in full sun, with light afternoon shade helpful in hotter sites.
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, organic-rich soil; slightly acidic to neutral is ideal.
• Water: Moderate; keep evenly moist during establishment and water during extended dry spells.
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5 to 9.
• Habit: Deciduous small tree or large shrub with an upright to rounded form.
• Mature Size: About 10 to 15 feet tall and 6 to 10 feet wide.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Highlight in a front bed, courtyard, or near a patio where the dark flowers can be enjoyed up close.
• Foundation Accent: Use as a refined spring-flowering anchor that stays appropriately scaled near the home.
• Courtyard and Small Garden Tree: Fits smaller spaces while delivering dramatic flower color and a clean silhouette.
• Mixed Border Feature: Place among shrubs and perennials for a strong spring accent, then let the green canopy carry the composition through summer.
• Evergreen Contrast Planting: Pair with dark green hedges or conifers to make the burgundy blooms look even richer.

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and consistently the first one to two seasons; steady moisture supports bud development and flower quality.
• Mulching: Maintain a 2 to 3 inch mulch layer over the root zone to protect shallow roots and stabilize soil moisture, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Fertilizing: Feed lightly in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer if needed, especially in lean soils.
• Pruning: Prune sparingly after flowering to remove dead wood or refine shape; avoid heavy pruning, which can reduce flowering.
• Site Protection: Choose a spot out of harsh wind and late frost pockets when possible to help protect buds and blooms.

Why Choose Genie Magnolia?

• Rich Burgundy Flowers: Delivers a dramatic, saturated bloom color that stands out among spring flowering trees.
• Compact Size: Provides magnolia impact in smaller landscapes and tighter planting areas.
• Polished Bloom Form: Upright flowers create a clean, architectural look in spring.
• Easy to Design With: Works beautifully with evergreens, stone, and contemporary plant palettes.
• Season-Long Presence: Offers spring bloom impact and a tidy green canopy that holds its shape through the growing season.

If you want a smaller magnolia with bold, dark flower color and a refined habit, Genie Magnolia brings a memorable spring show and focal point presence to landscapes where space and style both matter.