Magnolia 'Little Gem' is a cultivar of the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), which is a large evergreen tree native to the southeastern United States. This cultivar is prized for its compact size and dense, pyramidal shape, making it a popular choice for smaller gardens and urban landscapes. The leaves of 'Little Gem' are glossy and dark green, and the tree produces large, fragrant flowers that are white on the inside and dark purple on the outside. Unlike the species, Magnolia 'Little Gem' reaches a mature height of only 20-30 feet, making it an ideal choice for smaller gardens and landscapes. It is also relatively disease-resistant and low-maintenance, making it a popular choice for landscape use in warm temperate climates.