Cucumber Tree is a native eastern North American magnolia that earned its name not from fruit flavor but from the cucumber-like appearance of its immature seed pods. This deciduous species grows 40 to 70 feet tall and 20 to 35 feet wide, thriving in hardiness zones 3 through 8 where few other magnolias can survive the cold. In April and May, it produces slightly fragrant, greenish-yellow tulip-shaped flowers that measure 2 to 4 inches long, followed by showy fruit that adds late-season interest. It's a vigorous, low-maintenance tree that tolerates black walnut, making it an excellent choice for challenging woodland settings.
Partial Sun
Moderate
3-8
840in H x 420in W
—
Low
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Cucumber Tree is the hardiest magnolia native to North America, persisting in zones as cold as 3 where other ornamental magnolias simply won't survive. Its subtle charm lies in those greenish-yellow flowers that appear at twig tips in spring, followed by distinctive coral-red fruit clusters that persist into fall. It grows to impressive size, reaching 40 to 70 feet, yet demands remarkably little attention once established, asking only for moist, organically rich soil and no serious pest or disease management.
Cucumber Tree serves as both a flowering tree and shade tree, valued for its spring bloom display and substantial canopy. Its showy fruit adds ornamental interest through fall and early winter, making it a multi-season landscape asset.
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“Magnolia acuminata is native to eastern North America, reaching its largest size in the southern Appalachian Mountains. In Missouri, where it is the only magnolia native to the state, it typically occurs in moist soils within wooded valleys, bluff bases, and thickets along the Mississippi River in the far southern part of the state. Its common name, Cucumber Tree, derives from the shape of its developing fruit rather than any culinary characteristic, reflecting early European settlers' observations of this distinctive native species.”