Yellow Fever Magnolia Magnolia 'Yellow Fever'
ABOUT
The Magnolia 'Yellow Fever' is a striking ornamental plant known for its distinctive flower display. It produces an abundance of beautiful, lemon-yellow flowers. The blooms are large and showy with a tulip-like shape that is broad and waxy, flaunting a gentle curvature that comes to a point at the tips of the petals. The inside of the petals tends to be a paler yellow, while the outside may have a greenish tinge before the flowers fully open. These blossoms emit a pleasing, subtle fragrance that enhances their allure in the garden. The foliage of the Yellow Fever magnolia is also quite attractive, with glossy green leaves that provide a lush backdrop for the bright flowers. The leaves have an elongated oval shape with a pointed end and a robust, leathery texture. In autumn, the foliage turns to shades of bronze or brown before falling off, giving the plant a brief but noteworthy autumn display. This plant typically develops a rounded and elegant shape as it matures, forming a canopy of branches. The bark is relatively smooth, adding to the plant's overall aesthetic appeal. Being a decidour tree, it will lose its leaves during the cooler months, but its structural elegance keeps it interesting even when it's not in leaf. The growth habit of the Yellow Fever magnolia makes it a favored choice for ornamental purposes in landscapes and gardens where its bright flowers can be showcased to full effect.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Magnoliaceae
Synonyms
Yellow Fever Magnolia
Common names
Magnolia 'Yellow Fever'
ToxicityTo humans
Magnolias, including the hybrid variety known as 'Yellow Fever', are not commonly known to be toxic to humans. They are generally regarded as safe and there are no widely reported cases of poisoning from ingesting parts of the magnolia plant. Therefore, there are no specific symptoms of poisoning associated with this plant to describe.
To pets
Magnolias, such as the 'Yellow Fever' variety, are typically not considered toxic to pets. These plants are generally safe for animals, and there are no significant reports of pets being poisoned by consuming magnolia leaves, flowers, or other parts of the plant. Consequently, there are no particular symptoms or consequences associated with magnolia toxicity in pets to detail. However, as with any non-food plant, ingestion in large amounts could potentially cause mild stomach upset.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
Yellow
Height
20 feet (6 meters)
Spread
15 feet (4.5 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5
Native area
North America
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds vibrant color and visual interest to gardens with its unique yellow blooms.
- Year-Round Interest: Offers multi-seasonal display, including flowers in spring and attractive foliage throughout the year.
- Wildlife Attraction: Attracts pollinators such as bees and butterflies, supporting biodiversity.
- Shade Provision: Can offer shade in gardens and landscapes when grown to size.
- Scent: Produces fragrant flowers that can enhance the sensory experience of a garden.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires minimal pruning and care once established.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, can withstand periods of dryness better than some other ornamental plants.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Dye Production: The petals of the Yellow Fever magnolia can be used to create a natural dye for fabrics, yielding subtle yellowish hues.
- Photography: With its striking appearance, this plant can be used as an excellent subject for botanical photography and art.
- Culinary Garnish: The flowers of the Yellow Fever, though not commonly consumed, can be used to add an ornamental touch to salads and desserts.
- Insect Breeding: Some enthusiasts may use Yellow Fever magnolias to attract and support the breeding of specific beneficial insects such as bees or butterflies.
- Woodworking: The wood of the Yellow Fever magnolia is sometimes used in woodworking for its fine texture and workability.
- Educational Tool: This plant can be used in schools and educational programs to teach about botany and hybridization processes.
- Perfumery: Although not a traditional source, the scent of the Yellow Fever's flowers could inspire fragrance creation or be used in homemade potpourri.
- Feng Shui: In feng shui, magnolias are often associated with purity and nobility—placing the plant in a home may contribute to a positive flow of energy.
- Film and Theater: Used as a prop or set decoration, the Yellow Fever can provide a distinctive backdrop in visual storytelling media.
- Artists' Inspiration: The plant can serve as a muse for artists and sculptors who are drawn to its color and form for creative inspiration.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Magnolia is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Magnolia is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Persistence: The magnolia tree is known for its ability to withstand tough conditions, making it a symbol of persistence and endurance.
- Nobility: With its grand appearance and impressive size, magnolias are often associated with nobility and dignity.
- Feminine Beauty: The delicate, fragrant blossoms of the magnolia tree are reminiscent of feminine beauty and gentleness.
- Purity: The magnolia's white flowers are traditionally symbols of purity and innocence.
- Peace: Offering a sense of calm and tranquility, magnolias are commonly associated with peace.
WaterThe Yellow Fever Magnolia requires deep, thorough watering to keep the soil consistently moist. Typically, this involves providing the plant with about 1 to 1.5 gallons of water weekly, though this amount may need to be increased during extremely hot or dry periods. It's best to water the plant at the base, avoiding wetting the foliage, to help prevent disease. In winter, you can reduce the watering frequency, but never allow the soil to become completely dry. The use of mulch around the base can help retain moisture and reduce the need for frequent watering.
LightThe Yellow Fever Magnolia thrives in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, it should receive at least four to six hours of direct sunlight per day. A spot that provides morning sunlight with some afternoon shade is often perfect, as too much intense afternoon sun can lead to leaf scorch.
TemperatureThe Yellow Fever Magnolia prefers temperatures between 70°F and 90°F, but it can tolerate a range from about 0°F to 100°F. Frost or freeze temperatures below 0°F can damage the plant, so it's important to provide protection if extreme cold is expected. The plant performs best in the warmth of spring and summer.
PruningPruning the Yellow Fever Magnolia is done to maintain shape, remove any dead or damaged branches, and promote healthy growth. Prune after the flowering period in late spring or early summer to avoid cutting off next year's blooms. Remove any crossing branches and thin out crowded areas to allow light and air to penetrate the canopy. Major pruning should only be done every few years, as Magnolias do not require heavy pruning and can be sensitive to over-pruning.
CleaningNot needed
SoilYellow Fever Magnolia requires well-draining, acidic soil with pH levels between 5.5 and 6.5. A mix consisting of loamy soil, peat moss, and compost works well. Ensure adequate organic material to retain moisture while allowing excess water to drain.
RepottingYellow Fever Magnolia, being a tree, is not typically repotted. It is planted in the ground where it can grow without the need for repotting. If it is in a container, consider repotting every few years in early spring.
Humidity & MistingYellow Fever Magnolia thrives best in outdoor environments where the humidity is naturally regulated. However, it does not require high humidity and can tolerate average outdoor humidity levels.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Provide bright light, well-draining soil, and room for growth.
Outdoor
Plant in sun-partial shade, protect from harsh winds, mulch base.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA
Life cycleMagnolia 'Yellow Fever' begins its life cycle when a seed germinates, ideally in well-draining soil with some moisture. As a seedling, it requires partial shade but as it matures, it appreciates more sunlight. The plant will develop a strong root system and woody stem, growing into a shrub or small tree. Each spring, it produces large, tulip-shaped yellow flowers before the leaves fully expand, attracting pollinators such as bees. After pollination, the flowers develop into cone-like fruit that releases seeds in late summer or fall. The plant can live for many years, even decades, and continues to grow and produce flowers annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The most popular method for propagating the Magnolia 'Yellow Bird' is through softwood cuttings. This is typically done in late spring or early summer when the new growth is still flexible. To propagate, a gardener would select a healthy shoot and cut a 4- to 6-inch (10 to 15 cm) section, making sure at least one node is included. The cutting should have a few leaves but the lower leaves must be removed. The base of the cutting is then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root development and planted in a moist potting mix. The environment should be kept humid, often achieved by covering the pot with a plastic bag, and the soil should be kept evenly moist but not waterlogged. With proper care, roots will develop within a few weeks.
