What is an Ann magnolia tree?

The Ann magnolia tree is a cross between M. liliiflora 'Nigra' and M. stellata 'Rosea'. It produces reddish-purple goblet-shaped flowers in spring. The tree is a hybrid magnolia developed by the U.S. National Arboretum in the mid-1950s.

The Ann magnolia tree is best suited for full sun in zones 4 through 7. Its height at maturity can range from 8 to 30 feet. Its spread can reach 10 to 20 feet. Like its sisters in the National Arburetum's Little Girl magnolia group, the Ann magnolia blooms later in the spring than other magnolia varieties. This decreases the possibility that a cold snap can damage the blooms. It produces sporadic blooms through the summer and into early autumn.