Magnolia salicifolia, also known as willow-leafed magnolia or anise magnolia, originates from Japan. It is a small deciduous tree 7.5 m (25 ft) tall, with narrow lanceolate leaves with whitened undersides. The leaves are not as narrow as true willows (Salix), but is narrow compared to other magnolias, giving this tree a finer texture. The 10 cm-wide scented flowers emerge in early spring before the leaves.[1] Flowers have six petals. The leaves and bark are fragrant when crushed. It grows in rocky, granite soil along stream banks.[2]
The cultivar 'Wada's Memory', with double white scented flowers, has gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.[3]