Southern Magnolia
Magnolia grandiflora · Broadleaf Evergreen
Plant Family
Magnoliaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Shade Tree / Flowering Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Likely 'Bracken's Brown Beauty' or 'Edith Bogue' based on the dense, pyramidal form and visible rusty-brown leaf undersides.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 6 through 9; some cultivars are cold-hardy into Zone 5b.
About This Tree
Large, striking evergreen with a dense, symmetrical, broadly pyramidal to oval crown. Known for its leathery foliage and massive, fragrant white flowers. The growth rate is moderate.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, ovate to elliptic, 5 to 10 inches long. The upper surface is dark, glossy emerald green, while the lower surface features a distinctive rusty-brown, fuzzy indumentum. Margins are entire and smooth.
Bark Characteristics
Grey-brown to dark grey; smooth on young trees, developing into fine scales, shallow furrows, or small plates as it matures.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Southeastern United States; native from North Carolina to central Florida and West to East Texas.
Growing Season
Evergreen (retains leaves year-round). Primary flowering occurs in late spring to early summer (May-June). Seed pods mature in late summer and autumn.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Performs best in Full Sun to Partial Shade. Requires moist, well-drained, acidic soil. Moderate drought tolerance once established, but prefers regular moisture.
Mature Size
Typically reaches 60 to 80 feet in height with a spread of 30 to 50 feet. Can live for over 100 years.
Special Characteristics
Famous for large (8-12 inch) creamy-white, lemon-scented flowers. Highly resistant to pests; urban pollution tolerant. Notable for 'leaf litter' as old leaves drop throughout the year.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides excellent year-round cover for birds and small mammals. Seeds (red drupes) are eaten by squirrels, opossums, and turkey. Flowers attract various beetle species for pollination.