Species cucumber tree

cucumber tree

Magnolia acuminata

Magnolia acuminata, or cucumber tree, is an impressive deciduous tree native to North America. Growing a 50-90 feet in height with a trunk diameter of 2-3 feet, this majestic species boasts heart-shaped glossy, dark green foliage and fragrant cup-shaped yellow-green flowers. In spring, the tree produces large fruits about the size of a cucumber, which split open to reveal seeds surrounded by black and red arils that are edible and sweet. Cucumber tree is a valuable source of nectar for native pollinators and represents a great source of food for wildlife. This iconic species is also drought and shade tolerant, making it a great choice for parks and gardens.

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Hardiness Zone:

3 - 8

Flowers:

Greenish yellow Flowers

Sun:

Full sun,part shade

Fruits:

green,yellow,orange,brown Fruits Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green

Growth Rate:

Low

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

Care Level:

Medium

watering

The cucumber tree (Magnolia acuminata) should be watered thoroughly and deeply once every 2 to 3 weeks, taking care not to overwater. Plant roots should be allowed to dry out in between waterings. During the summer months, when the tree is actively growing, water more frequently. During times of drought or extreme heat, increase watering frequency to once a week. Inspect the soil before watering and ensure that it's completely dry before re-watering.

sunlight

Cucumber tree (Magnolia acuminata) requires full to partial sun in order to thrive and flourish. The ideal sunlight requirements for the cucumber tree are 8 to 10 hours of direct light every day. It prefers to be located in an area with a mixture of sun and shade throughout the day. The tree also grows robustly in consistently bright, open spaces such as meadows and forest clearings. While it prefers full sunlight, good growth and health are still achievable in partial shade. However, it is important to ensure that the tree isn't receiving too much shade as it may lead to leggy growth and lack of flowering.

pruning

Pruning a Cucumber tree (Magnolia acuminata) can promote healthy growth and extend its lifespan. Pruning generally should be done in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant. To prune, remove any dead, broken, or diseased branches, as well as any crossing, rubbing, or overcrowded branches. It’s also important to remove any branches that are growing inward toward the center of the tree. For more significant pruning, selective heading back of branch tips or removal of inner branches can be done to reduce the height or spread of the tree. Consider leaving some branches for aesthetic appeal and the bird species the Cucumber tree attracts.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Starts Flowering

Harvest Fruit

Hardiness Map

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