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southern magnolia

Scientific Name: Magnolia grandiflora

Family: Magnoliaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth: Tree

Duration: Perennial

Other Names:

       

Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

The Southern Magnolia, scientifically known as Magnolia grandiflora, is a beloved tree, especially in the southeastern United States.

Common Names

  • Southern Magnolia
  • Bull Bay
  • Evergreen Magnolia
  • Big-laurel
  • Large-flower Magnolia

Taxonomy and Nomenclature

  • Scientific Name: Magnolia grandiflora L.
  • Family: Magnoliaceae
  • Kingdom: Plantae
  • Taxonomic Rank: Species
  • Synonyms: laurier tulipier (English), bull-bay (English), southern magnolia (English)

Distribution and Habitat

  • Native to the southeastern United States.
  • Common escape in the Sandhills region. (e.g., Moore Co., NC; Wake Co.)
  • Grows well throughout Georgia.
  • Also found in Texas gardens.

Morphological Characteristics and Growth Habits

  • Evergreen tree.
  • Grows at a moderate rate.
  • Can reach a height of 80 feet or more (some specimens over 100 feet) with a 30 to 40-foot spread.
  • Forms a dense crown (more open in shade).
  • Straight trunk and conical crown.
  • Large, fragrant white flowers (citrus scented).
  • Leaves are evergreen and glossy.
  • Fruit is a reddish-brown bur.

Ecological Role

  • The text mentions it as a common escape in the Sandhills region.

Interactions with Other Organisms

  • Few pest problems.

Further Information

  • Arborday.org: Offers information on size, height, growth rate, sun and soil preference.
  • Encyclopedia of Life: Includes briefs and articles about Magnolia grandiflora.
  • USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database: Hosts photos, including those by William S. Justice.

Quirky Facts

  • Southern Magnolia was officially designated as the Mississippi State Flower in 1952.
  • It is the hardest and heaviest of the three primary magnolia species that are commercially harvested in the United States.