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Southern Magnolia - Magnolia grandiflora

Southern Magnolia

Hardiness Zones: 6 - 10

Average shipping height: 3' - 4'

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Bare Root

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Southern magnolia is a magnificent tree with a name that is somewhat misleading. Although it is most prevalent in the South — and the state tree of Mississippi — its zone 6 planting range means it can grow in many northern areas, even as far north as parts of Maine, Michigan, and Washington.

Produces fragrant, creamy white flowers
Blooms May through June
Is a broad-leafed evergreen
Will be delivered at a height of 3'- 4'

The Southern Magnolia Grows in zones 6 - 10

Your Tree’s Personality

Shape

Oval

Growth Speed

Slow to Medium

Scientific Name

Magnolia grandiflora

Mature Height

60' - 80'

Shipping Height

3' - 4'

Sun Preference

Full Sun, Partial Sun/Shade

Soil Preference

Acidic, Clay, Drought, Loamy, Moist, Sandy, Well Drained

Wildlife Value

The fruit of the southern magnolia is eaten by squirrels, rabbits and birds—including wild turkey.

History/Lore

Magnolias are entwined with the history of the south. Perhaps the one reaching back the farthest into time is a southern magnolia that still grows in what today is Washington State Park in Washington, Arkansas. According to Famous and Historic Trees by Charles E. Randall and Henry Clepper, this tree was planted near an important road junction in 1839 by Gen. Grandison D. Royston. It was near a blacksmith shop where Jim Bowie fashioned his famous knife.

Some call it the Jones Magnolia because two unrelated boys were born to Jones families the same year the tree was planted. Both became Colonels in the Confederate army and one, Daniel W. Jones, eventually became Governor of Arkansas. The other, James K. Jones, became a U.S. Senator. Both laid claim to being the namesake of the tree and James finally resolved the good-natured debate by purchasing the land the tree stood on and making his home there for over 30 years.

Another historic specimen grows on the White House grounds. It was transplanted by President Andrew Jackson from his home in Nashville, Tennessee, in memory of his beloved wife Rachel.

The name magnolia honors a French botanist, Pierre Magnol, who admired the tree so much that he transplanted it to Europe 300 years ago.

Planting Instructions