Cucumber Tree
(Mountain Magnolia)
Magnolia Acuminata
A large, rare tree native to southern Ontario and northeastern USA. The hardiest magnolia in North America and the only one native to Canada. Large, dark-green leaves up to 10 inches long. Peculiar green fruits, 2 to 3 inches long, that slightly resemble small cucumbers. They turn an attractive pinkish-red upon maturity. Flowers are ‘perfect’ containing both male and female parts. They are large, yellow-green and tulip-like but not as showy as other magnolias. Self-pollination is rare as pollen ripens after stigma is no longer receptive so plant at least 2 trees if seed is required. The species is relatively free of diseases and pests.
Additional information
Foliage | Deciduous |
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Locale | Native to North America |
Height | Large (60-100ft) |
Width | Wide |
Form | Oval, Round |
Growth Rate | Moderate |
Longevity | Long (over 100 years) |
Hardiness Zones * | 3, 4, 5 |
Sun Exposure | Full Sun (over 6 hrs), Partial Sun (4 to 6 hrs) |
Soil Preferences * | Moist, Slightly Acidic, Well Draining |
Soil Tolerances | Slightly Alkaline |
Ornamental Interest | Fruit, Flowers (attractive), Leaves (shape) |
Wildlife Value | Birds (fruits/seeds), Small Mammals (fruits/seeds) |
Human Value | Carpentry (wood) |
Seed Collection | Ordered Online |
Planting Considerations | Intolerant of Drought, Intolerant of Urban Pollution |