Gardeners often face the challenge of choosing a favorite magnolia variety due to their collective beauty and elegance. Despite their similarities, key differences exist between varieties such as Ann Magnolia and Jane Magnolia.
The most notable distinction lies in their flowers. Jane Magnolia boasts flowers with an abundance of petals, displaying a delicate whitish-pink hue. In contrast, Ann Magnolia’s flowers have fewer petals, yet they captivate with a deep pink color.
Additionally, Jane Magnolia tends to be slightly larger in size compared to Ann Magnolia.
Ann Magnolia and Jane Magnolia
| Ann Magnolia | Jane Magnolia | |
| Hardiness zone | 3-8 | 4-8 |
| Mature height | 10-12 ft (3-3.5 m) | 12-15 ft (3.6-4.5 m) |
| Mature width | 8-10 ft (2.4-3 m) | 8-10 ft (2.4-3 m) |
| Growth rate | medium | medium |
| Reblooming | rare | often |
| Light exposure | full sun, partial shade | full sun, partial shade |
| Soil | moist, drained | moist, drained |
| Soil pH | 6.2-7.0 | 6.4-7.3 |
| Watering | One time per week in a drought | One time per week in a drought |
| Diseases | fungus | fungus |
| Pests | insects | insects |
Their flowers are different
The flower sizes of Ann and Jane magnolias are comparable, with Ann’s blooms measuring approximately 3.5 inches across, while Jane’s are marginally larger at around 4 inches. The striking difference between them, however, lies in the petal count and shape.
Ann Magnolia typically features six to eight petals, each elongated in shape. This results in flowers that appear longer and thinner, yet they maintain a sense of loveliness and elegance. On the other hand, Jane Magnolia’s flowers consist of around ten petals, which are slightly broader than those of Ann. This attribute gives Jane’s flowers a fuller and more luxurious appearance.
Individually, Jane’s flowers might seem superior, offering a visual advantage. However, when viewing the plants from a distance, the differences between them become less noticeable.
Read also: How to care for different magnolia trees?
Ann’s color is dark pink
Another notable distinction between Ann and Jane magnolias is their coloration.
Ann Magnolia displays a deep purple-pink hue, which can intensify into a reddish-purple under ample sunlight, especially at the onset of flowering. This creates a truly striking appearance. The inner side of Ann’s petals is a bit lighter, typically a soft pink, but this difference isn’t dramatically contrasting with the petal tips or the outer side.
Jane Magnolia, in contrast, exhibits a significantly lighter petal color. The outer side of its petals is mostly light pink, occasionally shifting towards light purple. The inner side of the petals is almost white, with potential slight grayish or pinkish nuances. This distinct variation between the inner and outer sides of the petals creates a notable contrast.
This contrast in Jane Magnolia gives its flowers a variegated appearance, reminiscent of multi-colored leaves, contributing to an incredible visual effect.
Jane is bigger than Ann
Under optimal conditions, Jane Magnolia tends to grow larger than Ann Magnolia. When fully mature, Jane can surpass 15 feet in height and span about 10 feet in width, making it a relatively large tree that requires ample space.
In contrast, Ann Magnolia generally remains smaller, with its height seldom exceeding 10 feet. However, in warmer climates, it can occasionally grow up to 12 feet tall. A notable characteristic of Ann Magnolia is its more shrubby form. It typically reaches a width of 8-10 feet, often mirroring its height.
Based on these growth patterns, Ann Magnolia is more suitable for smaller yards due to its compact size and shrubby shape. On the other hand, Jane Magnolia, with its larger stature, is better suited for expansive estates where space is not a constraint.
Jane is prone to re-blooming
Magnolia Jane typically experiences a second blooming phase in the latter part of summer. During this period, the quantity of flowers is less than in spring, and their size is somewhat smaller.
This secondary flowering occurs sporadically, with flowers intermittently appearing and fading throughout August.
In contrast, a second flowering in Magnolia Ann is quite uncommon and should be considered more of an exception than a norm.
However, for Magnolia Jane, reblooming is not a rare event. Consequently, if extended flowering periods are desired, Jane Magnolia is the preferable choice, as it offers the opportunity to enjoy blooms for a longer duration.
Ann is more tolerant of frost
The ‘Jane’ magnolia thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8, showcasing its robust nature. Its notable feature is its late blooming period, typically around May, which helps it evade damage from late spring frosts. This characteristic is particularly advantageous in zone 4, where frost can linger until May.
Conversely, the ‘Ann’ magnolia is even more resilient, suitable for zones 3 to 8. However, it blooms earlier, usually in late April, making it more vulnerable to late frosts. This is a significant concern in zone 3, where frost can persist into mid-May.
For those residing in zone 4, ‘Jane’ is the preferable choice due to its later blooming time. While ‘Ann’ is the only option for zone 3, its susceptibility to late frost may pose occasional challenges.
Jane is more flavorful
The scent of magnolias is another distinguishing factor between the varieties. The Jane Magnolia is renowned for its strong fragrance, which can be detected from a significant distance. Its aroma is often described as delightful and sweet, adding to its appeal.
In contrast, the Ann Magnolia has a more subtle fragrance. Its scent is only discernible when one is in close proximity, making it less prominent in comparison.
Therefore, for those seeking a magnolia with a pronounced and pleasant fragrance, the Jane variety is the ideal choice.