Cucumber-tree
Magnolia acuminata
Last reviewed: August 2026
Magnolia acuminata (Cucumber-tree) is a native deciduous tree found across eastern and central United States. It blooms in May and June with yellow-green flowers that attract beetles and bees.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Cucumber-tree as toxic to livestock.
Light
part sun
Water
medium
Size
360"–720" H × 240"–480" W
Bloom
May, Jun
Native to
AL, AR, FL, GA and 18 more states
Pollinators
beetles, bees
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Cucumber-tree is a native magnolia growing into a large shade tree with yellow-green tulip-shaped flowers in late spring. The tree develops a straight trunk and pyramidal shape when young, becoming more rounded with age.
Growing Cucumber-tree
Grow Cucumber-tree in part sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 360 to 720 inches tall and spread 240 to 480 inches wide. Expect low maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Cucumber-tree is an HOA-friendly choice. Maintenance level: low. Tidiness: 4 out of 5.
Works well in: front yard, mid zone.
- Very large mature size requires adequate space
- Flowers are subtle compared to ornamental magnolias
Wildlife value
Host plant for tiger swallowtail butterfly.
The flowers attract beetles and bees in May and June. Birds and small mammals eat the red seeds that emerge from cone-like fruit in fall.
Common questions
- Where is Magnolia acuminata native to?
- Magnolia acuminata is native to 23 states across the eastern and central United States, including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia.
- When does the Cucumber-tree bloom?
- Magnolia acuminata blooms during May and June, producing yellow-green flowers that are less showy than other magnolia species.
- What pollinators visit Magnolia acuminata?
- The Cucumber-tree is primarily pollinated by beetles and bees, which are attracted to the flowers during the May-June blooming period.
- What growing conditions does Magnolia acuminata prefer?
- This adaptable tree tolerates a range of light conditions from full sun to partial shade and various moisture levels, though it performs best with consistent moisture and some protection from harsh afternoon sun.
- Is Cucumber-tree toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Cucumber-tree as toxic to livestock.
- Is Cucumber-tree HOA-friendly?
- Cucumber-tree is generally an HOA-friendly choice in the right placement, with low maintenance.
These answers were drafted with an AI model from this plant's data. Verify care details with a local expert.
Native range data from vouchered herbarium specimen records and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Cucumber-tree? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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