Magnolia liliiflora or Lily magnolia is deciduous shrub that blooms large pink to purple showy flowers in early spring before the leaves come out. It is one of the smaller species found in the magnolia genus, growing to about 4 meters high. It is native to China, but has been cultivated over centuries in Japan as well and sometimes called Japanese magnolia. Other names include Mulan magnolia, purple magnolia, red magnolia, tulip magnolia, Jane magnolia and woody-orchid. There is cherry blossom in the background.