
Common Name: Yellow Bird Magnolia
Magnolia × brooklynensis ‘Yellow Bird’ is a deciduous flowering tree with upright, goblet-shaped clear yellow blooms that appear in spring as the new leaves emerge, often a bit later than many other magnolias, which can help reduce frost damage. It usually begins with a narrow pyramidal habit and becomes broader and more rounded with age, giving it a more tree-like form than many hybrid magnolias. Type: Deciduous tree Mature Size: 20–25' W x 30–40' H USDA Zones: 4a–8b Form: Upright, conical to pyramidal when young, becoming more rounded with age Light: Full sun to part shade Soil / Water: Moist, rich, acidic to neutral, well-drained soil; moderate water, especially during establishment Bloom Time / Length: Mid- to late spring; flowers open with the foliage and generally bloom later than many magnolia cultivars Wildlife: Magnolia flowers are pollinated primarily by beetles, and magnolias can provide some habitat value, though ‘Yellow Bird’ is mainly grown for ornamental display. This wildlife note is partly inferred from magnolia biology rather than stated specifically for this cultivar. Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen tree, lawn tree, or focal point in larger borders where its clean yellow flower color can stand out. Its later bloom time and single-trunk, tree-like habit make it especially useful for gardeners who want a yellow magnolia with a more traditional shade-tree form. Care: Plant in fertile, well-drained soil and mulch to keep roots cool and evenly moist. Water regularly while establishing, avoid prolonged drought, and prune only lightly after flowering if shaping is needed. Like many magnolias, it performs best in a sheltered site with protection from harsh wind.
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree |
| Width: | 20-25' |
| Height: | 30-40' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Zone: | 4 - 8 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Butterflies, Bees |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Late Spring, Mid Spring |
| Landscape/Use: | Privacy Screen, Mass Planting, Accent Plant |
| Shape: | Oval, Upright |
| Soil Type | Rich, Moist well-drained, Slightly Acidic |
| Flower Color: | Yellow |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Green |