In 1989 seeds were planted from an eastern Wisconsin source of Loebner Magnolia (Magnolia kobus - Kobus Magnolia x M. stellata - Star Magnolia). From this seedling population, two seedlings have proven to be quite winter hardy in USDA zone 3 for the past 20 years, even after winter temperatures of -35 to -38º F. One seedling was selected for introduction. Foliage is dark green, narrowly obovate, leathery and of high quality. No pest problems have occurred. Plants are densely ovate in form and can be grown single or multi-trunked. Flowers are pink in bud, gradually opening to clean white with 11-13+ tepals and 3 to 4 1/2" in diameter. Magnolias are rarely winter hardy in zone 3, and this introduction has potential to extend the range for successful planting another 150-200+ miles further north in the upper midwest and plains regions of the United States. Propagated by softwood cuttings. USDA hardiness zone 3b-4. Hardiness: USDA hardiness zone 3-7 Mature Size: Height: 20', Spread: 20' Form (Shape): Dense oval to rounded large shrub to small tree. Growth Rate: Slow Foliage: Summer: High quality dark green; Autumn: Yellow-green to bronze Texture: Medium Flower: Pink in bud, gradually opening to clean white with 11 – 13+ tepals and 3 – 4 ½" in diameter. Blooms reliably and flower buds are hardy even below -35 °F. No tepal damage even after early spring frosts. Fruit: Aggregate of follicles, unique shape with some ornamental interest. Light Preference: Full sun exposure for best flowering Soil Preference: Prefers rich well-drained soil. pH adaptable. Propagation: Bud grafting or rooted stem cuttings. Ornamental Attributes: Outstanding spring flowering specimen plant. Landscape Attributes: Can be grown single or multi-trunked. Recommended for use as a large foundation shrub or small specimen tree. Comments: Spring Welcome® has outperformed other Loebner Magnolia hybrids tested in USDA hardiness zone 4. Patent Status: