I went a couple of weeks ago to the US National Arboretum in DC … the magnolia collection was almost in full bloom … stars, saucers, many hybrids. It's one of the arboretum's "can't miss" collections in springtime.
Magnolia 'Galaxy'
This tree was bred and introduced by the arboretum in 1980, so it's been around for awhile, but definitely worth consideration. It has an upright habit, usually flowers late enough to avoid frost damage, 30-40 feet tall, 22-25 feet wide. Zones 5-9.
Magnolia 'Ivory Chalice'
This magnolia was hybridized by the late David G. Leach of Madison, Ohio. Gorgeous 6-inch blooms of an off-white hue. Height around 30-40 feet, hardy to zone 4. A great tree planted as a garden specimen.
And …it was just a short drive over to the spring-blooming camellias.
Camellia japonica 'Hagoromo'
This is said to be a compact grower, but the one we saw was at least 10' high and simply covered with glorious pale pink flowers. Zone 7-9, usually 6-8 feet high and 4-5 feet wide. A perfect choice for smaller gardens.
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