Q: I would like to plant a magnolia tree in my back yard. What variety would be the best to use in a somewhat tight environment.

A: Good small magnolias include ‘Alta’, ‘Hasse’ and ‘Little Gem’. I love the upturned leaves of Teddy Bear magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora ‘Southern Charm’). It grows a bit larger than ‘Alta’ but will not overpower a landscape like typical magnolia trees.