Southern Magnolia
Common name(s): Southern Magnolia
Scientific name: Magnolia grandiflora
Plant family: MAGNOLIACEAE
Origin: North Carolina to Florida to Eastern Texas
Description: Large native tree up to 60 – 70 feet with a 30 – 40 foot spread. Great shade tree, give plenty of space. Evergreen, with strong branches and broad, conical crown. Considered stately in shape. Leaves: 6 – 10 inches long, leathery, shiny green on top and brown underneath. Flowers large, white and fragrant. Fruit, cone line with multiple red seeds. Flowers in Spring and Summer. Drops leaves and seeds in Fall.
Growing Conditions: Give plenty of space away from buildings. Plant in rich, organic soil that is well drained. Will grow in light shade and full sun. Soil should have some moisture. Hardiness: Zones 7 to 9.
Wildlife: Flowers attracts variety of insects and bees for the nectar.
Relation to Nehrling Gardens: Some of the very largest trees may have been on this part of the property since the early or mid 20s. Nehrling was very interested in testing out a variety of different magnolias from around the world to determine if they may be useful in horticulture.
Location in Gardens: B4, G4, G6-7, D9, D12
Additional Information: For the homeowner on restricted land, in many of our plant nurseries there are smaller magnolias to select from. Sweetbay magnolia for wet areas. This tree is the heart of the South, producing large, showy flowers, long periods of flowering, shiny green thick leaves with rusty-brown underneath. There are over 100 different cultivars of Magnolia that are available on the market. Select one that fits for your garden.
Sponsors:
Jim & Peg Thomas
Fritz Nehrling
Kathleen Klare
