Also known as Cucumber Tree · Cucumber-Tree · Mountain Magnolia
Cucumber Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata), a large deciduous tree native to eastern North America, features large leaves and inconspicuous greenish-yellow flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for best flowering and growth.
Consistent Moisture Preferred
50% intensity
Keep soil evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Moist, well-drained, acidic to neutral soil
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a wide range of temperatures, especially once established. Protect young trees from extreme cold.
Minimal
25% intensity
Fertilize young trees annually in spring. Mature trees typically require little to no fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Cucumber Magnolias prefer consistent moisture, especially when young. Water deeply during dry spells, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist but not waterlogged.
Reduce watering frequency in cooler months, but do not allow the soil to dry out completely. Mulching helps retain soil moisture.
Prune for shape and to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The best time for pruning is immediately after flowering in late spring or early summer. Avoid heavy pruning as it can stress the tree.
Remove suckers from the base of the plant as they appear.
Seed propagation is possible but requires stratification. Grafting is a more reliable method for desired cultivars. Cuttings can be taken from semi-hardwood in summer, but success rates can be variable.
Patience is key for successful propagation.
Young container-grown trees may need repotting every 2-3 years to refresh soil and provide more space. Choose a pot slightly larger than the current one. Use a well-draining potting mix.
Repot in early spring before new growth begins to minimize transplant shock.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Cucumber Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata)
Where Cucumber Magnolia (Magnolia acuminata) is found
Density
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Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Magnoliaceae |
| Genus | Magnolia |
| Species | Magnolia acuminata |
Similar in genus Magnolia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
