Southern Magnolia
Magnolia grandiflora · Evergreen Broadleaf Hardwood
Plant Family
Magnoliaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental and Shade Tree
Variety / Cultivar
'Little Gem' or standard species (dense, rounded canopy)
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 6 through 9, demonstrating good tolerance for summer heat and humidity
About This Tree
A magnificent large evergreen tree featuring a dense, pyramidal to rounded crown, large glossy dark green leaves with rusty undersides, and exceptionally large, fragrant white flowers.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, alternate, elliptic to oblong leaves measuring 5 to 8 inches long, thick and leathery in texture with a glossy dark green upper surface and a distinct brown or rusty indumentum (pubescence) on the underside, retaining leaves year-round
Bark Characteristics
Gray to brown bark that starts relatively smooth on young trees and becomes slightly furrowed, scaly, or flaky as the tree ages
Growing Information
Origin Region
Southeastern United States, well-adapted to coastal and warm inland plains
Growing Season
Evergreen year-round with prominent white, fragrant flowers blooming in late spring through summer, followed by cone-like fruit maturing in autumn
Sunlight & Water Needs
Prefers full sun to partial shade; requires moderate moisture and good drainage, though established trees have moderate drought tolerance
Mature Size
Typically reaches 60 to 80 feet in height with a spread of 30 to 50 feet, exhibiting a slow to moderate growth rate and a long lifespan exceeding 100 years
Special Characteristics
Highly valued for its large, showy, fragrant blooms, attractive year-round foliage, moderate resistance to urban pollution, and dense canopy providing heavy shade
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides valuable cover and nesting sites for birds; the large seeds are eaten by squirrels, wild turkeys, and other small mammals, while the fragrant flowers attract various pollinators