Sweetbay Magnolia
Magnolia virginiana · Deciduous to Broadleaf Evergreen (Hardwood)
Plant Family
Magnoliaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Flowering Tree
Variety / Cultivar
Standard species
Hardiness Zones
USDA Hardiness Zones 5-10; evergreen in the south (Zones 7-10) and deciduous in the north (Zones 5-6).
About This Tree
An elegant, small to medium-sized tree with an upright, spreading, or multi-stemmed habit. It features a loose, rounded crown and is famous for its lemon-scented creamy white flowers and silvery leaf undersides.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, elliptical to oblong leaves, 3 to 6 inches long; glossy dark green on top with a distinctive glaucous (chalky-white/silvery) underside; alternate arrangement with smooth (entire) margins; leathery texture.
Bark Characteristics
Smooth and silver-gray when young, similar to Beech; may develop subtle scales or thin plates with age; aromatic when bruised or crushed.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Southeastern United States, coastal plains from Massachusetts to Florida and west to Texas
Growing Season
Leafs out in mid-spring; flowers late spring through early summer (May to July); fruits ripen in autumn; enters dormancy in late fall.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun to partial shade; prefers moist, acidic, boggy soils but is adaptable to various conditions; high water needs; moderate drought tolerance once established.
Mature Size
Typically 10-35 feet tall and wide in the north, but can reach 60+ feet in the deep south; moderate growth rate; 50+ year lifespan.
Special Characteristics
Highly resistant to many common magnolia pests; tolerates wet, swampy soils and periodic flooding; features magnificent fragrant flowers and a high ornamental value due to wind-exposed silvery foliage.
Wildlife & Ecology
Provides nectar for pollinators like honeybees and beetles; seeds (bright red follicles) are a high-fat food source for songbirds, squirrels, and small mammals; larval host for the Sweetbay Silkmoth and Tiger Swallowtail butterfly.