http://aizefa.notlong.com 26 April 2008 Neighbor' Magnolia. This plant is from 12 to 15 years old, and is in my neighbor's front yard. The odour emitted was was most pleasing, and permeated the whole area around th trees. I would like to have such beauties in my yard. I planted one ($79.00) two years ago, and the frost killed it in the second year.
The larger is a saucer magnolia. The smaller is either (most likely) a purple lily magnolia or (perhaps) one of its many hybrids, such as the Kosar and De Vos hybrids. All of these are very common in suitable climates and quite hardy, although not sure all are fully hardy in Zone 5. Apparently you bought another kind that was not as hardy. http://www.usna.usda.gov/Newintro/magnoli1.html
I had the opportunity to see this tree in person the other day, what a beauty it is! I am working on getting myself one, but I need to do my homework to ensure that it survives. I found this info on the dutchmaster nuseries website ( canada ) Magnolia SAUCER MAGNOLIA Magnolia soulangeana grows in Zones 5-9 up to 5m high. Large, pink-tinged flowers appear in early spring, before leaves appear. Available in sizes 100cm, 125cm, 150cm, 175cm, 200cm, 250cm PINK STAR MAGNOLIA Magnolia stellata "Pink Star" grows in Zones 5b-9 up to 3m high. Creamy pink star-like flowers cover this shrub in late April. Available in sizes 100cm, 125cm, 150cm, 175cm ROYAL STAR MAGNOLIA Magnolia stellata "Royal Star" grows in Zones 5b-9 up to 3m high. Vigorous grower with pure white flowers. Available in sizes 100cm, 125cm, 150cm, 175cm
http://fiapu.notlong.com 1 May 2008 Magnolia Frost Damage. Zone 5. Our area had a severe frost on 30 April and the 1 of May and it destroyed the flowers on my neighbors magnolias. The flower petals didn't even have time to drop. It might be interesting to compare to the pictures on the first post.