Galaxy Pink - Purple Magnolia

Magnolia 'Galaxy' is a deciduous flowering tree with rose-pink to reddish-purple, fragrant flowers that open before the leaves in mid to late spring. It was raised by William Kosar at the U.S. National Arboretum from a 1963 cross and released in 1980; its upright crown becomes broader and pyramidal as it matures. [Oregon State University](https://landscapeplants.oregonstate.edu/plants/magnolia-galaxy); [Missouri Botanical Garden](https://plantfinder.mobot.org/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?isprofile=0&letter=m&taxonid=249437). ## Flowers and form The flowers have about 11–12 tepals, darker rose-purple outside and paler within. They appear late enough in spring to avoid many early-season frosts, though a late frost can still damage buds. Sources describe a mature tree around 20–35 feet tall, while the Royal Horticultural Society lists 8–12 metres; spread estimates also vary. The tree is initially upright, becoming broad-pyramidal with age. ## Siting Plant in full sun or light shade, in moist but well-drained, preferably acidic to neutral soil. A sheltered position helps protect flower buds from cold winds. Allow room for a mature tree and its wider crown as it ages. [RHS cultivation profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/47918/magnolia-galaxy/details). ## Maintenance Little routine pruning is needed. If shaping is necessary, prune deciduous magnolias after flowering, from midsummer to early autumn, rather than during winter or spring bud development.