(c) 2011 Patty Hankins
One of the truly spectacular early blooming trees in the Washington DC area is the Yulan Magnolia tree at the National Arboretum. Located along the side of the road just before the Asia Garden, this tree blooms beautifully in mid-March every year. 
(c) 2011 Patty Hankins
Yulan Magnolias (magnolia denudata) are native to Central and Eastern China. They grow to 40 feet tall – with amazing white flowers that bloom in early spring. They prefer either full or partial sun and will grow in zones 6 – 10.
The Yulan Magnolias have been cultivated in China for at least 1500 years. They were recorded as being in Buddhist temple gardens in the 7th Century A.D. During the Tang Dynasty, they were planted in the Emperor’s Garden and were considered a sign of purity. 
(c) 2011 Patty Hankins
Once I see the Yulan Magnolias blooming around the 20th of March – I know that some of my other favorite spring flowers will be blooming soon 🙂
(c) 2011 Patty Hankins
I think the magnolia can be a difficult flower to capture well close-up. You did a lovely job–nicely flowing lines, eye catching composition, and yet maintaining a delicate feel, too.