Magnolia

[bikermike]

My in-laws have given me a Magnolia Stellata. It's currently planted in a 30cm(ish) dia pot and is about 2.5feet tall. It's sitting inside the back door. It's got one flower on it and lots of buds, but no leaves.

Can it go outside? does it need hardening off?
Can it stay in pots for some time?
any other hints/tips for it's care?

[nickdub]

It can be planted outside, but it will stay quite small. A lot of them are grown in pots and are brought inside each year so that the flowers can be enjoyed - I think some types are scented from memory.