sometimes called the star magnolia, is a shrub native to Japan. It bears large, showy white or pink flowers in early spring, before its leaves open. Growing Details Common Name: Star Magnolia Genus: Magnolia Species: Stellata Skill Level: Beginner Exposure: Full sun Hardiness: Hardy Soil type: Well-drained/light, Acidic, Moist Height: 300cm Spread: 400cm Description A popular, compact, bushy shrub or small tree with mid-green leaves and silky buds which open up to large, pure white, star-shaped flowers, sometimes faintly flushed pink. The flowers are lightly scented, and open very early, before the leaves, eventually covering the shrub for several weeks. This is one of the best magnolias for a small garden.