It is the result of a breeding program to create yellow-flowered varieties conducted at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden beginning in 1953, and was named for Elizabeth Van Brunt, who donated funds to the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.

[1] Magnolia 'Elizabeth' is a deciduous tree typically 20 to 35 ft (6 to 11 m) tall and spreading to 12 to 20 ft (4 to 6 m) wide.

It is hardy in USDA zones 5 through 8, and is air‑pollution tolerant.

[2] With its cream to pale yellow flowers, Magnolia 'Elizabeth' gained the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit in 1993.

[3] Unlike species magnolias, it is approved for planting in New York City streets and parks.