I have this growing in my zone 8 (SC) garden. I think it is some sort of Saucer Magnolia, which is often called a tulip tree where I live.
This one is about 5 years old, and no more than 24". It has white flowers that have a rosy mark underneath each petal. It is currently blooming, but we have had an extraordinary warm winter.
I am including pics of the entire plant and close ups of the buds and blooms.