Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem', known as the Little Gem Magnolia, is a compact, evergreen variety of the Southern Magnolia with a columnar to pyramidal shape that's well-suited for use as a specimen tree or in formal gardens. It boasts many of the same characteristics as its larger relatives, including large, glossy green leaves with rusty-brown undersides and the signature large, creamy-white flowers with a lemony scent.

Common Name: Little Gem Magnolia
Mature Height: Reaches about 4-6 meters tall, making it an ideal choice for smaller gardens or limited spaces.
Mature Width: Typically grows to about 2-3 meters wide, maintaining a relatively tight form.
Spacing: Plant at least 2-3 meters apart from other trees or structures to give the tree ample room to grow.
Foliage: Displays shiny, dark green leaves year-round, with a striking brownish-bronze underside that adds to its appeal.
Flowering Period: Produces large, fragrant white flowers measuring up to 20 cm in diameter, blooming intermittently throughout the year with a peak in late spring through summer.
Form/Habit: Upright and compact, with dense, conical growth habit.
Uses: Perfect as a feature plant, in small groupings, or as an elegant screen. It can also be grown in a large container.
Evergreen/Deciduous: Evergreen, providing a constant display of glossy foliage and sporadic blooms.
Tolerates: Resistant to pests and diseases. Tolerates urban pollution and is relatively drought-tolerant once established.
Drought Hardy: Yes, once it's well-established.
Sun: Prefers full sun to partial shade. Performs best with morning sun and afternoon shade in hotter climates.
Maintenance: Low maintenance. Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove any damaged or diseased wood.

Additional Information

• Soil Preferences: Prefers rich, well-drained soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH.
• Watering Needs: Water deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish an extensive root system. Reduce frequency once established, as the 'Little Gem' is quite drought-tolerant.
• Wildlife Attraction: Its flowers are attractive to pollinators such as bees and provide a source of food for birds.
• Propagation: Usually propagated from cuttings to maintain the characteristics of the cultivar.
• Pests/Diseases: Watch for scale insects and treat as necessary. Leaf spot and blight can occur but are less common.
• Landscape Design Tips: 'Little Gem' can be used effectively as a standalone specimen or planted in a row for formal screening. It also works well when underplanted with lower-growing shrubs or perennials that prefer partial shade.

The Little Gem Magnolia is a versatile and beautiful tree that offers year-round interest with its lush foliage and stunning blooms. Its smaller size compared to other magnolias makes it a fantastic choice for those with limited space who still want to enjoy the grandeur of magnolia flowers.

Some description

When you plant a new tree, it's crucial to give it the right start by ensuring it receives sufficient water. Here’s a general guideline for watering your newly planted tree:

• Immediately After Planting: Water your tree generously right after planting your Tristaniopsis laurina 'Luscious' (Watergum) to settle the soil around the roots and eliminate any air pockets.
• First Three Months: The initial three months are critical for the establishment of the tree. During this period, the tree should be hand watered twice daily, in the morning and evening. This helps the roots grow deep and strong.
• Irrigation System: If you have an irrigation system, adjust it to ensure the tree gets adequate water during these first months.
• Adjusting to Weather Conditions: Always consider the weather conditions and adjust your watering accordingly. In hotter and drier periods, additional watering may be necessary.

Consistent attention to your tree’s watering needs during this initial period will help ensure its healthy growth and long-term success in your garden.

Here is our guide for planting your trees with the appropriate root ball dimensions. When planting, we recommend digging a hole that is 10% larger than the size of your pot, and teasing the rootball before planting to promote better root growth.

Root Ball Dimensions:

• 40cm Pot: 44 x 38.5 cm
• 45L Bag: 41.8 x 41.8 cm
• 50cm Squat Pot: 49.5 x 34.1 cm
• 50cm Pot: 49.5 x 35.2 cm
• 70L Pot: 55 x 41.8 cm
• 75L Bag: 55 x 48.4 cm
• 90L Pot: 59.4 x 44 cm
• 100L Bag: 50.6 x 52.8 cm
• 100L Squat Bag: 58.3 x 49.5 cm
• 100L Pot: 66 x 49.5 cm
• 150L Bag: 66 x 55 cm
• 155L Pot: 74.8 x 52.8 cm
• 200L Bag: 71.5 x 60.5 cm
• 280L Pot: 91.3 x 55 cm
• 300L Bag: 88 x 63.8 cm
• 400L Bag: 99 x 66 cm
• 500L Bag: 122 x 66 cm
• 1000L Bag: 146.3 x 71.5 cm
• 2000L Bag: 176 x 82.5 cm

Follow these dimensions to ensure a smooth planting process and optimal growth for your new tree.