I have an old M. x 'Elizabeth' and it has always been underplanted with evergreen Azaleas, which bloom about the same time as the tree. I also have 4 Evergreen Southern Magnolias (M. grandiflora), that were limbed-up to permit walking under them. The ground under those are competely covered with perennials, shrubs and bulbs. Rhodies, Azaleas, Daphne, Hosta, Ferns, Carex, Epimedium, Hydrangeas, Asarum, Helleborus, Asiatic lilys, Scilla, Sternbergia, Sedum, Liriope, Woodland Phlox, Brodiaea, Thalictrum, Osmanthus, Ilex, Camellia sasanqua, Viburnum (I'm sure there are others that I can't readily recall). I also have 2 Star Magnolias and several Magnolia x soulangiana (Saucer Magnolias). I have had no problem growing any shade tolerant plant under any of those. Such as: Arum, Arisaema, Cyclamen, Calanthe, Helleborus, Trillium, Daphne, Asarum, Erythronium, Iris japonica, Ferns, Crocus, Hosta, Hydrangea, Hepatica, Geranium, Campanula and more. Under one old, very large tree, I have 2 dwarf Japanese Maples growing. As long as adequate moisture is available, you can grow whatever is suitable under Magnolias. I have been successful for 40 years. Whenever a Magnolia feeder root becomes entangled with an underplanting, I just cut it out of the way. Has never affected any of my trees!

Thanks Kim and Murray, As far as picking them up from a local store, I'm in zone 4B (Minnesota) and I don't believe any stores carry them. I have 3 from last year all started from seed. one white profusion outside (mulched, but will be surprised if it comes back) one white profusion potted inside (looking good) and one purplish crossbreed mulched outside in area sheltered from wind (hopeful that one WILL come back). The "buzz" versions sound interesting but I think I want to try some larger compact plants if possible. It's not a space issue, it's a "plant killing winter" issue. I may just buy one plant and see if I can trade seeds with someone for the other. decisions, decisions....thanks again!

Well, OK.

Bob, I find butterfly eyes fascinating, too. The patterns aren't always the same. Trying to get good, clear photos that show the eyes is a challenge. And then, you start noticing the details. Differences in antennae are interesting as well, especially when they help you ID certain species. Thanks so much for your post and sharing what you observed. Sandy