About Magnolia ashei Weath.
Magnolia ashei Weath. is a deciduous small tree or large shrub that reaches 10–12 m in height, which is only about half the height of Magnolia macrophylla. It produces leaves that range from large to very large, measuring 17–56 cm long and 10–40 cm wide. Its flowers are large, fragrant, and creamy white, often with a purple spot at the base of the inner tepals. Flower width ranges from 15–38 cm, and can reach an exceptional maximum of 50 cm wide. This species is endemic to the Florida panhandle, where it grows at altitudes from sea level up to 50 meters. Magnolia ashei is cultivated as an ornamental plant, used as a flowering tree in gardens. Young plants of this species begin flowering at an early age, as young as 3–4 years old, which makes it popular for gardening.
