A "small magnolia tree" typically refers to a cultivar of magnolia, like the "Little Gem" variety, which is a dwarf version of the Southern Magnolia, growing to a much smaller size compared to the standard magnolia, usually reaching heights around 20 feet tall with a compact, upright form, perfect for smaller gardens and spaces; it features large, fragrant white flowers and glossy green leaves with a bronze-brown underside, making it a desirable choice for limited areas.