I really don't know what the problem is. But we bought a 2 foot tall 3 gal Dwarf Magnolia in 2002. It seems that It might take a while to become established. Our plant is almost six feet tall now. We notice that most of its growth occurs during the spring. I'm guessing that since it's used to more temperate regions it doesn't grow year-round. Our plant flowers quite profusely now i can count about 6 flower buds (thats the most we've seen so far).

We live in Kunia on O'ahu and our soil is red dirt clay. Maybe the Magnolia just needs a little more time before it starts growing more quickly.

Magnolia grandiflora is fairly common there but looks like it may tend to be a little slower and more shrublike (although still becoming a tree) in the tropical environment than elsewhere. Up here easily found M. grandiflora 'Little Gem' is sold as a dwarf selection, perhaps somebody there has brought that in and it is your Dwarf Magnolia. It has smaller parts, grows bushy for some years, gradually becomes a columnar tree.

Thanks for the replies, I'm guessing that it just needs to get a little more established like Cyanea said. I'll admit that I am being a little impatient. When I bought the plant it had two buds on it. When I bought it home, I was in awe of the beautiful flowers that opened in the next couple of days. I can't wait till it blooms again. I'm guessing it'll be a while though :-( Well thanks again for the info and reassurance that I am being just a little impatient..lol..

Hey just as I was posting my previous post, my magnolia plant started forming a couple of buds. At first I'd thought it was just going to be another set of leaves, but to my surprise they were buds. I have some photos here hope you guys enjoy. Thanks for all the feedback and info.

Here is a link that might be useful: Look What's Bloomin!