Scientific Name
Magnolia grandiflora L.
Common Name(s)
Southern Magnolia, Bull Bay
Synonym(s)
Magnolia angustifolia, Magnolia elliptica, Magnolia exoniensis, Magnolia ferruginea, Magnolia ferruginea, Magnolia foetida, Magnolia galissoniensis, Magnolia glabra, Magnolia gloriosa, Magnolia lacunosa, Magnolia lanceolata, Magnolia longifolia, Magnolia maxima, Magnolia praecox, Magnolia pravertiana, Magnolia rotundifolia
Scientific Classification
Family: Magnoliaceae
Subfamily: Magnolioideae
Genus: Magnolia
Flower
Color: White
Bloom Time: Late spring
Description
Magnolia grandiflora is a medium to large evergreen tree with a usually single stem and a pyramidal shape. It grows up to 50 feet (15 m) tall, rarely up to 100 feet (36.5 m). Leaves are dark green with smooth margins, simple and broadly ovate, up to 8 inches (20 cm) long and up to 5 inches (12.5 cm) wide.
The flowers are large, showy, white, lemon citronella-scented, with 6 to 12 petals with a waxy texture. They are up to 12 inches (30 cm) in diameter and appear from the tips of the twigs on mature trees in late spring. Fruits are oval, rose-colored, up to 4 inches (10 cm) long, and up to 2 inches (5 cm) wide.
How to Grow and Care
Although different species of Magnolia can tolerate slightly different conditions. They generally do best with slightly acidic, moist, loose, well-draining soil. Amend heavy soil with peat moss and compost to mimic Magnolia's natural conditions. Grow best in Zones 7-10, depending on variety, with a few cultivars hardy to zone 5. Full sun to partial shade. Moist and peaty soil can help Magnolias tolerate the full sun. If you're pushing the limits of cold tolerance, avoid planting Magnolias in southern exposure since the leaves can be damaged by the winter sun, and flowers may open prematurely. Magnolias benefit from irrigation in the first few years and tolerate moderate drought.
They need room to grow to their full mature size and width. So, while looking small when planted, they'll grow to fill up space over time.
Some varieties of Magnolia don't bloom until 15 years old, so be sure to choose one that fits your needs and expectations. Grafted plants (rather than seed-grown) bloom sooner.
See more at How to Grow and Care for Magnolias.
Origin
Magnolia grandiflora is native to the southeastern United States.
Links
- Back to genus Magnolia
- Plantpedia: Browse flowering plants by Scientific Name, Common Name, Genus, Family, USDA Hardiness Zone, or Origin
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