SCIENTIFIC NAME: Magnolia grandiflora

COMMON NAME: Southern Magnolia

GARDEN SIZE: 60 to 80 feet tall by 30 to 50 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 7 to 9 (may survive in protected sites in Zone 6; could drop leaves in severe winters)

EXPOSURE: Full sun to part shade (part shade often ideal in hot climates)

WATER & SOIL: Well-drained soil; water deeply during drought once established

HABIT (FORM): Pyramidal to rounded crown; massive mature stature

FOLIAGE: Evergreen; Large (to 10"), leathery, glossy dark green leaves with pale green to gray-brown undersides; evergreen

FLOWERS: Very large (8–12"), creamy white, extremely fragrant blooms from May–June with sporadic summer rebloom

PLANT ORIGIN: Southeastern United States including Tennessee

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: Host plant for local butterflies and moths, and food source for pollinators, birds, and small mammals. Supplies shelter and nesting sites.

FERTILIZING: Feed in early spring with an evergreen (acidic) fertilizer before new growth emerges in the spring

PRUNING: My be done in late February if needed for removing dead wood, shaping, or curtailing size. Avoid pruning if possible.

PET SAFETY: None known

USES: Specimen tree