 |
 |
| Leaf Photo by: Sean Fox |
Bark Photo by: Steven J. Baskauf |
 |
 |
| Fruit Photo by: Henry Kock |
Tree Photo by: Sean Fox |
Magnolias are one of the oldest families of flowering plants in the world. Beetles, not bees, pollinate their flowers.
The cucumber tree is rare in Ontario, confined to only a few locations in Norfolk County and the Niagara Region. It is the only species of magnolia native to Canada.
It is listed It is listed as provincially and nationally Endangered and is protected under the Endangered Species Act, 2007.
Cucumber trees have large, simple leaves up to 25 cm long, and hairy buds in winter. This species is named for the cucumber-like appearance of this tree’s immature fruits. Later, fruits turn red and open to release bright scarlet-orange seeds that dangle on a thin white thread. Flowers are yellowish-green with many petals, but they blend in with the foliage in late spring. Mature bark is grayish-brown with scaly ridges.
Cucumber tree is threatened by deforestation, and poor reproduction and seedling regeneration in isolated stands. Flowers require cross-pollination.
Size: Up to 25 m tall
Moisture: Moist to wet
Shade: Intolerant of shade, requires full sun
Soil: Prefers rich, slightly acidic soils
Planting Tip: If you are interested in planting cucumber tree as part of the Recovery Strategy, contact your local Ministry of Natural Resources Species at Risk biologist. More tips...
