Question
hi. I live in Alabama, in zone 7-8.

My neighbor has a bush/flower/shrub thing in her yard. They haven't been home and I guess it's rude to go tramping through peoples' yards to take pictures. So anyway. I observed it from a distance and tried to draw a picture of it. I don't know what the leaves look like. It is not very bushy, but has little leaves growing on it. It has huge pink/red flowers that to me look like either crocus or tulips. It is about 3ft tall and the flowers look like they're about 1-3 inches in diameter.

Here's my drawing. Sorry it isn't great, I hope maybe someone might have an idea what it is:

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y82/Desirai/flower.jpg

Answer
Dear Desirai,

Hello from Coach Dave, I'm a garden expert for The Home Depot and enjoy problem solving. Judging by the description and drawing, I'm going to guess the plant is a: Magnolia x soulangeana 'Alexandrina'also known as "Saucer Magnolia"/Tulip Tree/Bush." Depending on the age it might be a tree or a bush.  

Magnolia's are a deciduous plant that loses their leaves during the winter months.  It's upright growing pattern makes it an ideal front yard ornamental tree/bush.

Magnolias for the most part should not be pruned. You can prune old branches if problems occur,trim them to shape, or reduce size. Do this as soon as possible after flowering to assure chances of flower buds for the following year. Be aware that each magnolia can respond differently to pruning.

Deciduous magnolias need light, well-drained, acidic soil and regular watering. Once established they can withstand occasional drought. However drought most likely would stop growth and give you sparse blooms.

Remember to plan out the area where your Magnolia will live, they do not do well to transplanting or windy areas.

If you get a photo and more questions let me know,

Yours Respectfully,

Coach Dave