Also known as Japanese Big-Leaved Magnolia · Japanese Bigleaf Magnolia · Japanese Whitebark Magnolia
Magnolia obovata (Japanese Big Leaf Magnolia) is a large deciduous tree known for its enormous, fragrant white flowers and exceptionally large leaves.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Thrives in full sun but can tolerate partial shade, especially in hotter climates. Protect from harsh afternoon sun when young.
Consistent Moisture
50% intensity
Prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water deeply when the top layer is dry. Avoid standing water.
Moist, well-drained, acidic soil
50% intensity
Hardy
50% intensity
Tolerates a range of temperatures, generally hardy in USDA zones 4-8. Protect young trees from extreme cold.
Moderate
50% intensity
Feed in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid over-fertilizing.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Japanese Big Leaf Magnolia prefers consistently moist soil, especially when young. Water deeply when the top few centimeters feel dry. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot.
Reduce watering slightly in winter, but do not let the soil become completely dry.
Prune to shape the tree and remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches. The best time to prune is immediately after flowering, as it blooms on old wood.
Minimal pruning is generally required for established trees, as they have a naturally attractive form.
Propagation is typically done by grafting or layering. Seed propagation is possible but can be slow and may not result in true-to-type plants.
Grafting onto rootstock is the most common method for reliable propagation of desired cultivars.
Young plants may need repotting every 2-3 years into a slightly larger container, using well-draining potting mix. Mature trees are best left undisturbed in the ground.
If repotting is necessary for older specimens, do so in early spring before new growth begins.
Identify plants like this with ePlant AI
Snap a photo to get care tips and match similar species on the go.
Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Japanese Big Leaf Magnolia (Magnolia obovata)
Where Japanese Big Leaf Magnolia (Magnolia obovata) is found
Density
Tap map to explore
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Magnoliales |
| Family | Magnoliaceae |
| Genus | Magnolia |
| Species | Magnolia obovata |
Similar in genus Magnolia
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
