Common Name(s): Southern Magnolia

Synonym(s):

Family: Magnoliaceae

Native To: Southeastern United States

Native Habitat: Thrives in hot humid climates

Growth Habit: Large evergreen tree

Flowering: Produces large, fragrant flowers beginning in May and continuing sporadically throughout the summer

Distinguishing Characteristics: This fast growing evergreen tree reaches heights of 60 to 90 feet with a spread of 30 to 50 feet. The thin bark is dark gray on younger trees turning almost black and ridged on older ones. The thick, leathery leaves are alternate and simple. They are dark, glossy green above and slightly reddish green below. The leaves range in size from about 5 to 10 inches long and 4 to 5 inches wide. The large, creamy white, highly fragrant flowers bloom between April and June. They are generally 6 to 12 inches in diameter. The pinkish red fruit then splits open in late summer to reveal the dark red seeds.

Natural History and Cultivation Notes: The genus name, Magnolia, honors the French botanist and horticulturist Pierre Magnol. The species name refers to the large flowers of the tree. The Southern Magnolia, one of the notable features in many southern landscapes and old plantations, is also the official state tree of Mississippi. The magnificent flower is also the state flower of Louisiana.

Ethnobotany: The hard, heavy wood of this species is used to make furniture, pallets, and veneers. This tree is highly valued in the south and planted extensively as an ornamental and shade tree. The fragrant, large flowers are also highly prized and used quite often as corsages.

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