Magnolia zenii, commonly known as Zen Magnolia, is a deciduous tree native to the subtropical forests of the Jiangsu province in China. It typically grows to a height of 10-20 feet (3-6.1 meters) and a width of 10-15 feet (3-4.6 meters). The Zen Magnolia has a compact, upright form with a smooth gray bark. It is renowned for its large, fragrant flowers that bloom in early spring before the foliage emerges. The flowers are cup-shaped and come in shades of pink to purple with a white interior, creating a striking contrast against the bare branches.

Zen Magnolia is valued for its early spring blossoms and is often used as a specimen plant in gardens and parks. It is relatively low-maintenance, requiring medium to high amounts of water and thriving in soils with medium drainage. While it prefers part shade, it can tolerate full sun if kept adequately watered. This species is not commonly found in cultivation, but when planted, it offers a unique aesthetic appeal due to its early flowering season. Gardeners should be aware that it may require protection from late frosts, which can damage the flowers.CC BY-SA 4.0