Sunburst Yellow Magnolia

Magnolia ‘Sunburst’ is an upright, deciduous small tree with fragrant yellow flowers that open as the leaves emerge in spring. Its flowers and changing foliage give it a bright seasonal presence in a sheltered garden. ## Growing Plant in full sun or partial shade, in moist but well-drained soil and a position sheltered from cold winds. The [Royal Horticultural Society profile](https://www.rhs.org.uk/plants/156225/magnolia-sunburst/details) describes large upright yellow flowers with paler inner surfaces, bronze-flushed young leaves, and copper autumn color. It gives a height of about 4 m after 10 years and up to 8–12 m at maturity, with a broad 4–8 m spread. [Trees and Shrubs Online](https://www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/magnolia/magnolia-cultivars-s/) identifies ‘Sunburst’ as the cross Magnolia × brooklynensis ‘Woodsman’ × Magnolia ‘Gold Star’, selected by August Kehr, and reports USDA Zones 6–9. Late frost can damage the flower buds. ## Garden use Allow space for a medium-sized tree and enjoy the yellow blooms as the leaves emerge. The flowers are fragrant and the upright habit gives the tree a clear vertical form. ## Maintenance Little pruning is needed. If pruning is necessary, do so between midsummer and early autumn; avoid exposing flower buds to late frost.