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Magnolia grandiflora. Common Names: southern magnolia, bull bay. Family: Magnoliaceae (magnolia Family). Description: Southern magnolia is a large, broad-leafed evergreen tree that can grow 60-90 ft (18-27 m) in height with a trunk up to 2-3 ft (0.6-0.9 m) in diameter. It's trunk is typically straight and erect with spreading branches that form a dense, broadly pyramidal crown. The evergreen leaves are large 5-8 in (13-20 cm) long, leathery and dark glossy green above with rusty, velveteen undersides. Southern magnolia has large, showy white flowers that are 8-12 in (20-30 cm) in diameter. These have a pleasant fragrance and appear throughout the spring and summer. The fruits are reddish-brown conelike structures, 2-4 in (5-10 cm) long, with bright red kidney shaped seeds that hang from little threads when fully mature in autumn. Location: This native American tree occurs on the coastal plain from North Carolina, south to central Florida, and west to east Texas. Magnolia grandiflora grows best along streams and near swamp margins in moist, fertile soils, in association with American beech (Fagus grandiflora), sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua), and various oaks. This spectacular tree is beloved by gardeners and planted all over the world wherever it can be grown. Light: Full sun to partial shade. Moisture: Southern magnolia is extremely drought tolerant. It does best, however, in rich, well-drained, acidic soils. Hardiness: USDA Zones 7-9. The starter tree you will receive is growing in a 4 inch pot. They are about 8" tall.
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