
Common Name: Saucer Magnolia
Magnolia × soulangeana ‘Rustica Rubra’ is a deciduous flowering tree or large shrub prized for its large, goblet-shaped blooms that are rosy pink to reddish purple on the outside and pale pink to white inside. It flowers in early to mid-spring on bare branches before the leaves emerge, creating the classic bicolored saucer magnolia display. Older references describe it as similar to ‘Lennei’ but a bit earlier and slightly redder in tone. Type: Deciduous tree or large shrub Mature Size: 15–25' W x 20–30' H USDA Zones: 5a–8b Form: Broadly upright to rounded, often multi-stemmed with age Light: Full sun to part shade Soil / Water: Moist, organically rich, slightly acidic to neutral, well-drained soil; moderate water, especially during establishment Bloom Time / Length: Early to mid-spring; flowers before leaf emergence and usually bloom for several weeks, depending on weather Wildlife: Early flowers can support pollinating insects, especially beetle pollinators typical of magnolias, though this cultivar is grown mainly for ornamental display. This is partly an inference from magnolia flower ecology. Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent as a specimen, lawn tree, patio accent, or focal point in mixed borders and residential landscapes. Its rich pink-purple outer tepals and pale interior give it strong contrast, and the flowers are notably fuller and more colorful than the straight species type commonly seen in older landscapes. Like many saucer magnolias, it is most effective where the spring bloom can be seen up close. Care: Plant in fertile, well-drained soil and avoid hot, dry, exposed sites. Mulch to keep roots cool and evenly moist, water regularly while establishing, and prune only lightly after flowering if shaping is needed. A sheltered location can help reduce damage to flowers from late frosts and wind
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree |
| Width: | 15-25' |
| Height: | 20-30' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Moderate |
| Zone: | 5 - 8 |
| Deer Resistant: | Yes |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Mid Spring, Early Spring |
| Bark Type: | Smooth |
| Landscape/Use: | Provide Shade, Specimen |
| Shape: | Broad Upright, Oval |
| Soil Type | Rich, Moist well-drained, Slightly Acidic |
| Flower Color: | Pink |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Green |