Pollination Info for Ann Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Ann')

Ann Magnolia is a hybrid magnolia cultivar that was created by crossing Magnolia liliflora with Magnolia stellata. It produces beautiful pinkish-purple flowers in early spring before the leaves emerge.

Ann Magnolia is self-sterile, which means it needs cross-pollination from another magnolia to produce fruit. In order to ensure good pollination, it's recommended to plant another magnolia in close proximity to Ann Magnolia.

The ideal pollinator for Ann Magnolia is the Magnolia stellata Royal Star, which is also an early bloomer with similar-sized flowers. Other compatible magnolia varieties include Magnolia stellata, Magnolia salicifolia, and Magnolia loebneri.

Insects, such as bees, butterflies, and moths, are the primary pollinators for Ann Magnolia. Therefore, it's important to avoid using pesticides or other chemicals that could harm these pollinators.

Overall, to ensure optimal pollination and fruit production for Ann Magnolia, planting another magnolia nearby and avoiding the use of pesticides are key.

Ann Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Ann') FAQs

Q: What is an Ann Magnolia?

A: Ann Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Ann') is a deciduous shrub that produces stunning, fragrant, purple-pink flowers in early spring before the foliage has fully emerged. It is a hybrid of Magnolia stellata and Magnolia liliiflora, and was developed in the mid-1950s by Dr. August Kehr of the US National Arboretum.

Q: How large does an Ann Magnolia grow?

A: Ann Magnolia typically grows 8 to 12 feet tall and wide, but can reach up to 15 feet tall and wide over many years.

Q: What are the sunlight requirements for an Ann Magnolia?

A: Ann Magnolia prefers full to partial sun, meaning it needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily, but tolerates some shade.

Q: What type of soil does Ann Magnolia prefer?

A: Ann Magnolia prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soil. It can tolerate clay, loam or sandy soils, but does not do well in alkaline soil.

Q: When is the best time to plant an Ann Magnolia?

A: The best time to plant an Ann Magnolia is in early spring or fall. Planting in summer or winter should be avoided as these are extreme weather conditions that can stress the plant.

Q: How often should I water my Ann Magnolia?

A: Ann Magnolia requires moderate watering during its growing season. Water deeply, but allow the soil to dry slightly between watering to prevent root rot.

Q: When should I prune my Ann Magnolia?

A: Pruning of Ann Magnolia should be done in early summer after blooming. Avoid pruning in fall or winter, as this can cause the plant to bloom less in the spring.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Ann Magnolia?

A: Ann Magnolia typically benefits from an all-purpose fertilizer in early spring, after the last frost, and again in early fall before cooler weather sets in. Be sure to follow manufacturer instructions carefully.

Planting and Care for Ann Magnolia (Magnolia x 'Ann')

Planting Ann Magnolia

• Choose a location with well-draining soil and full to partial sun (at least 4 hours of direct sunlight daily)
• Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the tree.
• Place the tree in the hole, making sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil, filling in with soil around the tree.
• Water the tree deeply to settle the soil around the roots.
• Add a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture.

Caring for Ann Magnolia

• Water the tree thoroughly once a week during dry spells, making sure the soil is moist but not waterlogged.
• Fertilize the tree in the spring with a slow-release granular fertilizer formulated for acid-loving plants.
• Prune the tree in late winter or early spring to remove any damaged or diseased branches, or to shape the tree as desired.
• Protect the tree from winter damage by wrapping burlap around the trunk, or covering with a protective blanket or tarp.
• Monitor the tree for signs of disease or insect infestation, and treat as necessary with appropriate fungicides or insecticides.