Judy Zuk Magnolia

Judy Zuk Magnolia (Magnolia x brooklynensis 'Judy Zuk')

Judy Zuk Magnolia (Magnolia x brooklynensis 'Judy Zuk') is a rare and captivating deciduous tree known for its uniquely colored flowers, upright habit, and fragrant early blooms. Bred at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden and named in honor of its former president, this hybrid combines the best traits of Magnolia acuminata and Magnolia liliiflora. Its rich yellow petals, flushed with orange and pink at the base, stand out as a bold and sophisticated feature in spring landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Judy Zuk' produces tulip-shaped flowers in deep golden yellow, often highlighted with warm orange or pink hues near the base of the petals. Blooms appear in mid-spring, avoiding late frosts while offering a sweet, light fragrance. This magnolia grows in a strong, upright form and typically reaches 30 to 40 feet tall and 20 to 25 feet wide. Its foliage emerges bronze and matures to rich green, adding seasonal interest even after flowering concludes.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; prefers consistent moisture during the growing season
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Vibrant flower color and upright habit make a dramatic spring statement
• Specimen Tree: Perfect for lawns, courtyards, or as a standalone accent
• Public Landscapes: Adds seasonal interest to parks, campuses, and large gardens
• Mixed Borders: Combines well with other flowering trees and large shrubs
• Legacy Gardens: Ideal for collectors and designers seeking rare, named cultivars

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain even moisture during establishment and dry periods
• Pruning: Little required; prune after flowering to maintain form if needed
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and regulate temperature
• Frost Protection: Later bloom time avoids most spring frost issues

Why Choose Judy Zuk Magnolia?

• Unique Flower Color: Striking yellow-orange blooms set it apart from typical magnolias
• Fragrant Blooms: Light scent enhances its springtime appeal
• Upright Form: Grows tall with a clean structure ideal for modern landscapes
• Named Legacy: A distinguished cultivar with a horticultural pedigree
• Focal Point: An elegant choice for gardens seeking color, structure, and rarity

Magnolia x brooklynensis 'Judy Zuk' offers refined beauty, a memorable spring presence, and a story rooted in botanical excellence. Its golden blooms and upright shape make it a compelling centerpiece for discerning gardeners and landscape designers.