I bought this to have a banana leaf like shrubby tree with magnolia flowers (as I love the scent). Honestly, I haven't planted it in the best conditions for this plant (but it's in the most attractive area in my garden for it though) so I delayed on writing my review. I'm in Zone 6b and have it planted in heavy clay/loam, 11-hour full sun on the cusp of a sharp slope. At first the leaves fried (which I expected 'cause this plant usually prefers part shade), but I've diligently watered (after testing soil with a moisture meter) and staked a temporary shade cloth around it. It took a bit to adjust to my transplant shock, but now the plant is putting on good growth and is peeking above the shade cloth but not suffering for it. I recommend giving it a try if you're on the fence; I've read reviews from others growing this in tougher situations and Ashe magnolia is a harder plant than most expect.