Magnolia bark

My magnolia has bark that has peeled away following the winter. Not sure if winter is cause or something else. It runs about 8 inches up from the soil line. Any suggestions ??

Magnolia liliiflora

 

Oh my, it looks like all the bark has been stripped by a rodent or something. I don't think a tree would survive that.

 

Any advice on what to do now ??

 

From my poor view, it looks like the bark has been chewed off all the way around the tree by a varmint that doesn't climb. I can't imagine a tree surviving after that. It would need to be replaced and apparently protected from critters until established and thriving.

I see a flower bud at the top of the photo. I suppose I would let the tree stay long enough to let any flowers open, before replacing it.

 

Yes. Lots of buds but they have been there a while and nothing opening up. Trying to figure out if it’s hopeless and I need to replace ASAP or if there is any hope ?

 

Do the twigs have any flexibility or are they dried out?

 

Yes they still do

 

Well, I suppose wait another week or two to see if the buds do anything. If not, then it is definitely a goner.

 

My thoughts too. Buds have been there forever but nothing blooming. Scratch test show green under bark higher up, so I know it’s reaching branches but not sure if that will last based on foundation at the bottom !