Trees

Magnolia acuminata

Cucumber magnolia

Cucumber magnolia, photograph; seasonal appearance varies.

Cucumber magnolia is a large deciduous North American tree, better suited to spacious grounds than a small front garden. Its greenish-yellow spring flowers are relatively discreet among the leaves. Developing cone-like fruits give the species its common name, while the broad mature canopy contributes shade and substantial landscape structure.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Size: Height: 50–80 ft · Width: 35–60 ft
Water: Moist, well-drained soil
Hardiness: USDA 4–8
Bloom: Greenish-yellow, late spring

Sizes & prices

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Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

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Landscape use & tree form

Use: Large landscape specimen
Form: Pyramidal, becoming rounded and spreading
Growth rate: Moderate
Fruit / litter: Cucumber-like cones ripen red, then brown, releasing red-coated seeds.
Major issues: Magnolia scale can occur; protect bark from mowers.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Some resistance reported, but deer browse buds and twigs.
Drought: Sensitive to heat and drought.
Wet soil: Needs moisture with drainage; not a standing-water planting.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Birds: Seeds provide food

Native range

Native range / parentage: Native to eastern North America. Species native to Kentucky.
Tristate native status: Species native to Kentucky.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Large green leaves; deciduous.

Growing & care

Pruning: Usually needs little pruning. For deciduous trees, make necessary shaping cuts in summer; avoid major winter or early-spring cuts.
Soil: Rich, moist, well-drained soil; avoid compaction.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

Royal Horticultural Society

horticulture.mgcafe.uky.edu

Photo: KATHERINE WAGNER-REISS / NC State Extension, CC BY-SA 4.0 · CC BY-SA 4.0

Image notes: Cucumber magnolia, photograph; seasonal appearance varies. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.