This small Magnolia grows wider than
tall. It is described in Sunset Western Garden Book as getting to 12 feet tall by 15
feet wide. The largest that I have seen is 8 feet tall by 12 feet wide.
The Lily Magnolia is
a spectacular deciduous tree blooming before the leaves come on. The erect flowers
with their two toned petals stand out from a distance and grab the visual spotlight.
It blooms a little later than the Magnolia
solangiana and has a nice smattering of Summer flowers. The early buds of Magnolia nigra stand like dark
purple candles.
High resolution images
of Magnolia nigra are available.