Magnolia x loeb. 'Dr. Merrill' (white) (BBP)

This deciduous tree boasts a rounded, multi-stemmed habit, making it a striking addition to gardens and landscapes. Hardy in USDA Zones 4 through 7, it thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers moist, well-drained, slightly acidic soils. Its creamy white flowers, which appear in early spring before the foliage emerges, are star-shaped and emit a light fragrance, creating a spectacular early-season bloom. Fall foliage transitions to a golden bronze hue, adding seasonal interest. The tree reaches a mature height of 20 to 30 feet, with a width roughly equal, forming a balanced oval shape. While not considered deer-resistant, it remains a popular ornamental tree for residential and park settings. This cultivar provides no significant fruit display but excels in floral and structural elegance.