Southern Magnolia, Evergreen Magnolia, Loblolly Magnolia, Great Laurel Magnolia, Big Laurel, Bull Bay
A commanding presence in the landscape, the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is a grand, evergreen tree known for its large, fragrant white flowers and glossy green leaves with a rust-colored underside. Native to the southeastern United States, this iconic species thrives in warm climates and is commonly planted in parks, gardens, and along streets for its ornamental beauty and dense foliage.
Magnolia belongs to the Magnoliaceae family, which includes several popular species, such as the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), Star Magnolia (Magnolia stellata), Saucer Magnolia (Magnolia × soulangeana), and Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana).
Southern Magnolia is native to the southeastern United States, from North Carolina to Florida and west to Texas. It thrives in lowland forests, coastal plains, and riverbanks, preferring warm, humid conditions.
Southern Magnolia is a broadleaf evergreen tree with a straight trunk and a dense, pyramidal or oval canopy. It has a strong, deep root system and is known for its longevity and resilience in urban and natural landscapes.
At maturity, Southern Magnolia typically reaches 60 to 80 feet (18-24 m) in height with a spread of 30 to 50 feet (9-15 m). This moderately fast-growing tree typically adds 12 to 24 inches (30 to 60 cm) per year under optimal conditions.
This long-lived tree can thrive for 80 to 120 years, making it a valuable addition to landscapes seeking permanence and grandeur.
Flowers: Southern Magnolia produces enormous, creamy-white, cup-shaped flowers measuring 8 to 12 inches (20-30 cm) in diameter. These powerfully fragrant blooms appear at the tips of thick, sturdy stems from late spring to early summer, with intermittent flowering continuing into fall. Each flower lasts for 2-3 days, opening in the morning and closing at night.
Fruits: After blooming, cone-like, woody seedpods develop, maturing in fall. When fully ripe, they split open to reveal bright rose-red seeds, which often dangle from silky threads. These seeds are a valuable food source for birds and other wildlife.
Southern Magnolia features thick, leathery, glossy dark green leaves that range from 5 to 10 inches (12-25 cm) in length. The undersides are covered in a distinctive rust-colored fuzz, adding seasonal interest and texture. This evergreen tree retains its foliage year-round in warm climates but may shed older leaves in spring as new growth emerges. Its dried leaves are prized by florists in flower arrangements.
The bark is smooth and gray when young, gradually developing a scaly texture with age.
Southern Magnolia is hardy in USDA Zones 6 to 10, thriving in a wide range of climates. It can tolerate temperatures as low as 0°F (-18°C), demonstrating notable cold hardiness. However, young buds and leaves are susceptible to frost damage, particularly in late spring. Optimal growth occurs in temperatures between 60°F and 85°F (16°C to 29°C). While it can withstand heat up to 100°F (38°C), prolonged exposure to extreme heat and drought may cause stress, requiring supplemental watering in dry conditions.
The seeds of Southern Magnolia are an important food source for a variety of wildlife, including birds such as wild turkeys, eastern kingbirds, mockingbirds, robins, wood thrushes, and red-eyed vireos. Small mammals, including squirrels, opossums, quail, mice, and chipmunks, also feed on the seeds, which are rich in fat and provide a vital energy source for migratory birds. Discover small trees and shrubs that attract birds.
The dense, evergreen foliage offers year-round shelter for small mammals and nesting sites for birds, providing protection from predators and harsh weather conditions.
Additionally, Southern Magnolia flowers play a crucial role in supporting pollinators. Unlike many flowering trees that rely on bees, its pollen is particularly attractive to beetles, which are the primary pollinators of the species. The pollen is high in protein, making it a valuable food source for these beneficial insects.
Southern Magnolia is generally considered moderately resistant to deer and rabbits damage
Southern Magnolia is non-toxic to humans and pets.
This species is not invasive and integrates well into native landscapes.
Southern Magnolias thrive in full sun to partial shade. Ideally, they should receive at least four hours of unfiltered sunlight per day. While they tolerate shade, more sun exposure encourages abundant flowering. In their natural habitat, they often grow as understory trees, so they adapt well to dappled light conditions.
Southern Magnolias prefer moist, well-drained, organically rich, loamy, and slightly acidic soils. However, they tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy, clay, and neutral soils. Poor drainage or prolonged waterlogged conditions can lead to root rot, while excessive dryness may cause leaf yellowing.
Newly planted trees require deep watering at least once a week to establish a strong root system. Once established, they demonstrate good drought tolerance but benefit from supplemental watering during extended dry periods. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture, but mulch should not touch the trunk to prevent rot.
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth. A second application in summer can further enhance flowering and foliage. Young trees benefit from three annual feedings—spring, summer, and fall—until their root systems fully establish. Avoid excessive fertilization, as it may lead to excessive vegetative growth at the expense of flowering.
Prune Southern Magnolias immediately after flowering to maintain shape and remove dead, damaged, or weak branches. Avoid heavy pruning in winter, as magnolias do not heal well when dormant. Lower branches may be left intact for a natural, sweeping form or pruned for a more tree-like structure.
Southern magnolias (Magnolia grandiflora) can grow between 60 to 80 feet tall, with a spread of 30 to 50 feet. Some cultivated varieties remain smaller, making them suitable for residential landscapes.
Southern magnolias thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 6-10. They prefer warm, humid climates and well-draining, slightly acidic soil. They grow best in full sun to partial shade.
The flowers of the Southern magnolia emit a rich, sweet fragrance with lemony undertones. The scent is strongest in the evening and early morning.
While beautiful, Southern magnolias have some drawbacks, including:
Choose a location with well-draining, slightly acidic soil and full to partial sun. Ensure enough space for its mature size, and plant away from sidewalks and structures to avoid root interference.
It’s best to plant a Southern magnolia at least 20 feet away from your house. Its extensive root system and large canopy can cause issues if planted too close to structures.
Southern magnolias are cherished for their evergreen foliage, large fragrant flowers, and historical significance. They symbolize endurance, beauty, and the charm of the Southern landscape.
Hardiness |
6 - 10 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
1 - 9 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Trees |
Plant Family | Magnoliaceae |
Genus | Magnolia |
Common names | Magnolia, Southern Magnolia, Evergreen Magnolia |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 60' - 80' (18.3m - 24.4m) |
Spread | 30' - 50' (9.1m - 15.2m) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries |
Native Plants | United States, Maryland, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Arkansas, Mississippi, Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas |
Tolerance | Deer, Salt, Wet Soil |
Attracts | Birds |
Garden Styles | Prairie and Meadow, Coastal Garden |
Hardiness |
6 - 10 |
---|---|
Heat Zones |
1 - 9 |
Climate Zones | 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, H1, H2 |
Plant Type | Trees |
Plant Family | Magnoliaceae |
Genus | Magnolia |
Common names | Magnolia, Southern Magnolia, Evergreen Magnolia |
Exposure | Full Sun, Partial Sun |
Season of Interest | Spring (Early, Mid, Late), Summer (Early, Mid, Late), Fall, Winter |
Height | 60' - 80' (18.3m - 24.4m) |
Spread | 30' - 50' (9.1m - 15.2m) |
Maintenance | Low |
Water Needs | Average |
Soil Type | Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand |
Soil pH | Acid, Alkaline, Neutral |
Soil Drainage | Moist but Well-Drained, Well-Drained |
Characteristics | Fragrant, Showy, Evergreen, Fruit & Berries |
Native Plants | United States, Maryland, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Arkansas, Mississippi, Virginia, Tennessee, South Carolina, North Carolina, Texas |
Tolerance | Deer, Salt, Wet Soil |
Attracts | Birds |
Garden Styles | Prairie and Meadow, Coastal Garden |
How many Magnolia grandiflora (Southern Magnolia) do I need for my garden?
Plant | Quantity | |
---|---|---|
Magnolia grandiflora (Southern Magnolia) | N/A | Buy Plants |
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Create a membership account to save your garden designs and to view them on any device.
Becoming a contributing member of Gardenia is easy and can be done in just a few minutes. If you provide us with your name, email address and the payment of a modest $25 annual membership fee, you will become a full member, enabling you to design and save up to 25 of your garden design ideas.
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