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Southern magnolia
Also known as: Evergreen magnolia, Big laurel
A showpiece of the southern United States is the southern magnolia. This tree is known by its dark green oval leaves that are leathery in feel and its beautiful waxy flowers. The southern magnolia blooms are thought to symbolize dignity and nobility. White versions of the flower are commonly used in bridal bouquets to denote purity.
Scientific classification
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Perennial
Lifespan
Tree
Plant Type
Early summer, Mid summer
Bloom Time
Fall
Harvest Time
28 m to 37 m
Plant Height
10 m
Spread
Green, Brown
Leaf Color
15 cm to 30 cm
Flower Size
Brown, Red
Fruit Color
White, Cream
Flower Color
Green, Cream
Stem Color
Winter dormancy
Dormancy
Evergreen
Leaf type
15 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Spring, Summer
Growth Season
Moderate
Growth Rate

Images of Southern magnolia

Attributes of Southern magnolia

Growth Rate
With a moderate growth speed, southern magnolia expresses a steady development during spring and summer. Expect consistent leaf production, with steady height increases, resulting in a thick foliate canopy. In summer, its growth accelerates slightly, enhancing its flowering potential. Internally, its growth speed ensures sufficient resource allocation, fortifying its hardiness.

Distribution of Southern magnolia

Distribution Map
Southern magnolia naturally occurs across the southeastern United States. It hasn't been widely introduced, spreading only to neighboring areas such as Cuba and Kentucky. Southern magnolia grows best in rich, damp soils in lowland regions. You can typically find this plant by streams and on the edge of swamps.
Native
Cultivated
Invasive
Introduced
No species reported
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Habitat
Hammocks, sand dunes, buffs, sandy bottoms
Hemisphere Trend Curve
Flowering
Fruiting

Culture

Environmental Protection Value
It has strong resistance to smoke, carbon dioxide, and wind.
Garden Use
The southern magnolia is common in lawns and container plantings and often used as a street tree. Cultivars such as the Bracken Brown Beauty are favored for their winter hardiness, whereas other cultivars are cherished for their ornamental value due to flowers that bloom throughout spring and summer. Camellias, Calla Lilies, Elephant Ears, Ferns, and Hostas are all great companion plants for the southern magnolia.
Symbolism
Longevity, femininity, perseverance, nobility, beauty, love of nature
Interesting Facts
Southern magnolia is majestic and magnificent, and its flowers are elegant and noble and rich with fragrance. It is an excellent street tree species and were often planted in ancient buildings and Western courtyards.
Name Story
Southern magnolia: It is often called the Southern magnolia because it is a native species from the forests in the South Atlantic while the name, Magnolia commemorates Pierre Magnol, a French botanist.
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Cultivars

There are several recognized cultivars of Southern magnolia, including the following common varieties :

Quickly Identify Southern magnolia

1
Glossy dark green leaves, 5-8 inches (13-20 cm) long, with rusty-brown, felt-like texture on underside.
2
Fragrant, creamy white flowers, 8-12 inches (20-30 cm) in diameter, with 6-12 petals.
3
Spherical fruit clusters, 3-5 inches (7.6-12.7 cm) long, ripening to reveal rose-red seeds.
4
Woody stem, 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter, with rough, grayish-brown bark and horizontal branching.
5
Distinctive bark evolution from smooth to close plates or scales, indicative of age and resilience.
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Care Guide for Southern magnolia

Every 1-2 weeks
Water
Full sun
Sunlight
15 - 35 ℃
Ideal Temperature
Water: Southern magnolia thrives in humid subtropical regions, preferring a balance between moisture and dryness. It has moderate drought tolerance, requiring watering every 1-2 weeks. As an evergreen, southern magnolia retains leaves year-round, increasing its water needs during dry periods.
Fertilize: For southern magnolia, use balanced fertilizers in spring and high nitrogen ones in late winter to enhance growth and flowering. Fertilize every 2-3 years at the drip line. Follow product instructions to avoid over-fertilization, employing granular, slow-release formulas for sustained nutrient availability.
Pruning: Southern magnolia thrives with pruning in early to late winter, focusing on removing dead branches, thinning growth, and shaping for aesthetics. This practice improves airflow, light penetration, and reduces disease risk, ultimately encouraging robust blooming while avoiding heavy pruning to prevent stress.
Propagation: Southern magnolia is an evergreen known for its large, glossy leaves and fragrant white flowers. Propagate through semi-hardwood cuttings using clean tools and rooting hormone. Place cuttings in well-draining medium, maintaining high humidity and indirect light for successful root establishment.
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