Rosea Star Magnolia (c) 2010 Patty Hankins

One of the first trees to bloom in the spring in the Washington DC area are the Star Magnolia (magnolia stellata).  They are usually in full bloom by mid-March – usually a week or two before the Cherry Blossoms hit their peak bloom.

Royal Star Magnolia (c) 2011 Patty Hankis

Star Magnolias are native to Japan. They grow up to 20 feet tall – with blossoms that form the shape of a star. There are at least 12 and up to 30 petals in each flower. The flowers can be found in shades of white and light pink.

Rosea Star Magnolia (c) 2010 Patty Hankins

Star Magnolias were introduced into the United States in the 1860s and quickly became a popular plant for landscaping. It is fairly slow growing and produces beautiful flowers early in the spring. They are commonly found in botanical gardens in the Washington DC area. I’ve photographed them at both McCrillis Gardens in Bethesda and the National Arboretum in Washington, DC.

Kikuzaki Star Magnolia (c) 2010 Patty Hankins

I hope you’ve enjoyed my photos of the Star Magnolias. I know I’m already looking forward to photographing more of them next year.

Royal Star Magnolia (c) 2011 Patty Hankins