A deciduous magnolia raised by famed plantsman J. C. McDaniel at the University of Illinois in the 1960’s, Magnolia x loebneri ’Ballerina’ becomes a small tree to 20 feet. Flowers in mid-March for us, April further north. Generally regarded as the last of the Loebner Magnolias to flower & so usually escapes late spring frosts. The flowers are white, pale pink at the base, occurring before the new leaves emerge. Quite a sight. Fall color is always excellent. If you’re looking for a deciduous magnolia for your garden, this one is hard to pass up. Zones 5 - 8. Images courtesy of Raulston Arboretum.

Large, white, fragrant flowers in early spring before it leafs out make Magnolia x loebneri ’Merrill’ "magnificent" (Dirr) -- "resembling a white cloud" , ibid. ’Merrill’ is likely the most vigorous Loebner magnolia available in this country. The original plant at the Arnold Arboretum approaches 30 feet in height & is slightly wider. Blooms earlier for us than ’Ballerina’ often in late February or early March, yet it is extremely cold hardy being rated from zone 5 to 8. A splendid plant indeed. Additional images courtesy of Raulston Arboretum.