Magnolia macrophylla (Bigleaf Magnolia)

Noted for its unique enormous leaves, Magnolia macrophylla (Bigleaf Magnolia) is a magnificent, deciduous tree with a single trunk and a broad, rounded crown. In late spring to early summer, large, fragrant, creamy-white flowers, 8-10 in. across (20-25 cm), adorned with rose-purple at their petal bases, open after the leaves on mature trees (at least 12 years old). The blossoms are followed by egg-shaped fruits, which mature to red in late summer and open to reveal red-coated seeds suspended on slender threads. Many bird species and small mammals eat the red fleshy seeds. The foliage of huge oblong-obovate leaves, up to 36 in. long (90 cm) and 12 in. wide (30 cm), is green above and silvery-gray underneath. The bark is thin and gray. Bigleaf Magnolia makes a superb shade tree or specimen tree for a large landscape where it can be protected from high winds.

• Grows up to 30-40 ft. tall and wide (9-12 m)
• A full sun to part shade lover, this plant is easily grown in organically rich, moist, acidic, well-drained soils. Tolerates clay loam soils and sandy soils and is moderately tolerant of drought. Does not withstand extreme drought or wetness, or pollution. Protection from wind helps to preserve the huge leaves.
• Perfect as a specimen plant.
• Low maintenance, this beautiful tree is not subject to serious insect or disease issues. Leaves can create a maintenance issue at leaf drops in the fall.
• Propagate by fresh seed sown in fall, stratified seed, or semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer.
• Native to the Caribbean, Mexico, and the southeastern United States.