Thursday, June 18, 2009

Cucumber Magnolia

Cucumber Magnolia
Magnolia acuminata
(mag-NO-lee-uh) (ah-kew-min-AY-tuh)
Synonyms: Yellow Cucumber tree, Mountain Magnolia

From this page on the Western North Carolina Nature Center website by H. Clay Smith I learned that Magnolia acuminata is the hardiest and most widely distributed Magnolia native to the United States (8 species). It is also the only species native to Canada. It can grow to over 80 feet tall and can live for 120 years. It is considered one of the latest flowering Magnolias.

This picture was taken earlier this spring and the size of flower and the creamy yellow color was beautiful. It makes a handsome landscape specimen. The foliage can be 12 inches long and the 2 to 3 inch long ‘cucumbers’ add some novelty interest. Some of the cultivars of interest to the gardener include 'Butterflies', 'Yellow Bird', and 'Elizabeth'.

Ugh, another one to two inches of rain is expected here today. Here is a photo of the whole flower.

3 comments:

SandyCarlson said...

The sunlight on that blossom literally made my heart ache. That is what sunshine looks like. It's all coming back now--in memory.

Would like to buy stock in Wellington boots!

Anya said...

Very lovely shots today,
BEAUTIFUL :)
The first picture I never seen before, that flower ;)

greetz Anya :)
Kareltje =^.^=

Digital Flower Pictures said...

I know just what you mean, Sandy.

Thanks Anya for leaving a comment.