
Common Name: Centennial Star Magnolia
Magnolia stellata ‘Centennial’ (Centennial Star Magnolia) is a deciduous shrub or small tree with a vigorous, rounded to broadly pyramidal habit. It produces large, lightly fragrant white flowers with a soft pink blush and many narrow tepals in early spring before the leaves emerge, creating a full, starry look. This cultivar was introduced in 1972 to mark the 100th anniversary of the Arnold Arboretum and is valued for its especially large blooms and strong ornamental display. Type: Shrub / small tree Mature Size: 15–20' W × 15–25' H USDA Zones: 4a–9b Form: Rounded to broadly pyramidal Light: Full sun to part shade Soil / Water: Rich, well-drained, slightly acidic soils; moderate water, prefers even moisture and protection from hot, dry wind Bloom Time / Length: Early spring; moderate (about 2–3 weeks) Wildlife: Bees Features & Landscape Uses: Excellent for specimen planting, foundation beds, and smaller landscapes. The flowers are larger and fuller than typical star magnolia blooms, often with 28–33 tepals, and the plant offers strong spring impact while staying smaller than many magnolia trees. Care: Plant in a protected site with fertile, well-drained soil. Early flowers can be damaged by late frosts and strong winds, especially in colder zones, so a sheltered location is best. Prune only if needed after flowering.
| Plant Type: | Deciduous Tree, Flowering Ornamental Tree |
| Width: | 15-20' |
| Height: | 15-25' |
| Fragrant: | Yes |
| Fruit | Yes |
| Growth Rate | Fast |
| Zone: | 4 - 9 |
| Deer Resistant: | No |
| Salt Tolerant: | No |
| Drought Tolerant: | No |
| Attract: | Bees |
| Exposure: | Full Sun, Partial Shade |
| Bloom Time: | Early Spring |
| Landscape/Use: | Specimen, Accent Plant, Corner Accent |
| Shape: | Pyramidal, Broad Upright, Rounded |
| Soil Type | Clay, Rich, Moist well-drained |
| Flower Color: | White |
| Leaf Color: | Green |
| Fall Color: | Green |