Because of its beauty, the magnolia blossom was designated the state flower of Louisiana in 1900 and was also one of 21 candidates for the Arbor Day Foundation’s America’s National Tree contest.

For an even smaller type, try the Royal Star Magnolia or Rose Marie Magnolia trees. The first, with wide, white flowers, reaches between 3 and 4.5 metres tall, while the latter, with pink, upright ...