Magnolia 'Daybreak'

The magnolia 'daybreak' is an amazing specimen tree. It's unusual due to its large pink tulip shaped blooms and it's tight columnar growth - only 8 to 10 feet wide at a full 40 ft in height. The color reminds me of the pink pastels I used on art projects in my younger days and darkens as the blooms mature. In the spring, loads of huge 8 to 10" blooms precede leaves, emerging from large buds with a pretty pink color that stays strong through the life of the bloom. As the blooms fall from the tree in a shower of pedals, the leaves begin to emerge. The glossy leaves and elegant shape of the tree provide summer interest and a strong backdrop for other later blooming shrubs. The magnolia 'daybreak' can be grown as a multi-stemmed shrub or with a single trunk.

We like the daybreak magnolia in a number of settings. They make good specimen trees in the yard and work well in tight spots or row plantings due to the vertical nature. Due to the early bloom they also thrive on the edge of a forest garden. The tight vertical stature makes them an easier tree to find a place for and their unusual large pink pedals make them a great combination with other trees spring yellow, purples, whites and reds. These trees are fairly easy to care for, they require little pruning and will do well in most soils, but like most trees thrive in well-drained soil rich in organic matter. For lighting they do well in anything from full sun to part shade.

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.