Magnolia x 'Tinkerbelle' is a compact deciduous magnolia known for its upright growth and fragrant deep reddish pink tulip shaped blooms that appear in mid to late spring. A hybrid between Magnolia liliflora and Magnolia stellata, it was developed for smaller garden spaces and offers strong resistance to late frost damage. Its narrow form and show stopping floral display make it ideal for focal points or foundation planting.
Height & Spread: 10 - 13 ft x 6 - 10 ft
Bloom Time: Mid to late spring
Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade
Soil Preference: Moist, slightly acidic, well drained soil
Watering Needs: Moderate; water deeply during dry spells
Deer Resistance: Moderately resistant; protect young specimens
Native Status
This hybrid magnolia is not native to North America. It was bred by the University of Minnesota to offer cold hardiness and compact form suited to a wide range of garden zones.
WILDLIFE & INSECTS
Bees
- Provides abundant pollen to early emerging bees such as honeybees and native Andrena species.
Birds
- The tree’s dense branching offers shelter and nesting potential for small birds like chickadees and finches.
Beneficial Insects
- Attracts predatory wasps and parasitic flies that help manage garden pests during the growing season.
Spacing & Landscape Use
Spacing Recommendations:
- Space 8 - 10 ft apart to allow for mature canopy spread and airflow.
Landscape Placement:
- Excellent as a specimen tree, accent near patios, or anchoring mixed border plantings in smaller landscapes.
Companion Plants
- Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost' - Heart shaped silver foliage brightens the shady base of magnolia while complementing spring blooms.
- Hakonechloa macra 'Aureola' - Graceful golden variegated grass that provides arching texture and contrast at the tree’s base.
- Pulmonaria 'Trevi Fountain' - Spotted foliage and blue spring blooms harmonize with magnolia’s flowering window.
- Heuchera 'Plum Pudding' - Deep purple ruffled leaves echo the pink tones of magnolia flowers and offer multi season interest.
- Hosta 'June' - Variegated foliage adds structure and color to shaded planting zones beneath magnolia canopies.