Texas Tech University

Southern Magnolia

Magnolia grandiflora
Evergreen-Trees

(Detailed plant information can be found at the bottom of the page.)
Magnolia grandiflora

Magnolia grandiflora Photo Gallery



Magnolia grandiflora Plant Information

Classification  
   
Scientific Name: Magnolia grandiflora
Common Name: Southern magnolia
Family: Magnoliaceae
Suggested Uses: specimen, screen, grouping
   
Characteristics  
   
Height: up to 60 feet tall
Spread: up to 30 feet wide
Foliage: alternate, simple, evergreen, and 5 to 10 inches long

leaf scar forms a ring around the twig

back can have brown pubescence (brown-back) or no pubescence (green-back)
Flower: large, creamy white, fragrant flower

may take up to 5 to 20 years before flowers appear
Bloom Period: early Summer
Fruit: aggregate of red follicles
Bark: smooth and gray
   
Environment  
   
Sun: full sun to part shade
Soil: prefers a well-drained, slightly acidic soil
USDA Zone: zones 7 - 9 (it is thought that the brown-back type is hardier)
   
Care  
   
Maintenance: protect from Winter winds

will drop older leaves in early Summer
   
Additional Notes: widely used as a specimen tree in the Southern United States

numerous cultivars and crosses

TTU Plant Resources