Magnolia acuminata (Cucumber Tree)

The hardiest of all magnolias, Magnolia acuminata (Cucumber Tree) is a magnificent, deciduous tree with a straight trunk and a pyramidal crown. In late spring to early summer, tulip-shaped, slightly fragrant, yellowish-green flowers, 2-4 in. long (5-10 cm), open with emerging leaves on mature trees (at least 12 years old). Handsome at close range, they are borne so high on the tree that they are often missed. Flower buds and flowers are edible and may have provided a minor food source to First Nations and white settlers. The blossoms are followed by cucumber-like fruits, which turn from green to red and open to reveal small red seeds in late summer. The fruits become forage for towhees, other ground-feeding birds, and small mammals. The foliage of huge, ovate, deep green leaves, up to 10 in. long (25 cm), turns dull yellow in fall. The bark is smooth and pale gray on a young tree, becoming brown, deeply furrowed, and ridged on mature trees. Native to eastern North America, Cucumber Tree makes a superb shade tree or specimen tree for a large landscape.

• Grows up to 40-70 ft. tall (12-21 m) and 20-30 ft. wide (6-9 m)
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in organically rich, moist, acidic, well-drained soils. Moderately tolerant of drought and salt. Does not withstand extreme drought or wetness, or pollution.
• Perfect as a specimen plant.
• Low maintenance, this beautiful tree is not subject to serious insect or disease issues.
• Propagate by seed, layering, grafting/budding.
• Native to eastern North America.