Sunsation Magnolia

Sunsation Magnolia (Magnolia 'Sunsation')

Sunsation Magnolia (Magnolia 'Sunsation') is a vibrant, mid-sized deciduous tree prized for its luminous yellow blooms flushed with rosy pink at the base. A later-blooming hybrid, it offers large, cup-shaped flowers that emerge just as the danger of spring frost passes, making it a reliable and stunning choice for seasonal color. With its upright form and uncommon coloration, 'Sunsation' serves as a bold focal point in any spring landscape.

Distinctive Features

'Sunsation' produces large, 6�7 inch flowers in a buttery yellow hue with subtle rose-pink highlights at the base of each petal. The blooms are upright, tulip-shaped, and fragrant, emerging in mid- to late spring when the tree is just beginning to leaf out. The tree develops a strong central leader and a pyramidal habit, maturing to 20 to 30 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide. Its foliage is deep green through summer with soft golden tones in fall.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; regular watering during dry spells
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Uncommon bloom color and strong form stand out in spring gardens
• Specimen Tree: Excellent for open lawns, entry gardens, and large beds
• Foundation Planting: Adds upright structure and seasonal drama near buildings
• Spring Borders: Combines well with groundcovers, evergreens, and flowering shrubs
• Urban Landscapes: Compact size and tidy shape suit city gardens

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially while establishing
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; shape after flowering if necessary
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring before leaf-out
• Mulching: Mulch to protect roots and conserve moisture
• Frost Protection: Later bloom reduces risk of flower damage from late freezes

Why Choose Sunsation Magnolia?

• Showy Yellow Flowers: Large, fragrant blooms with pink accents are truly eye-catching
• Frost-Resistant Bloomer: Flowers open after danger of most spring frosts
• Compact Form: Ideal size for smaller landscapes or accent placement
• Strong Structure: Upright growth habit adds vertical interest
• Focal Point: A radiant spring-blooming tree that brings rare color and elegance

Magnolia 'Sunsation' delivers a brilliant blend of color, fragrance, and structure right when the garden needs it most. Its dependable bloom time and vibrant flowers make it a standout choice for gardeners seeking something distinctive yet easy to grow.