Consulta Plantas

Care of the tree Magnolia grandiflora or Southern Magnolia

The genus Magnolia, family Magnoliaceae, includes about 120 species of trees native to the American continent and Southeast Asia. Some species are: Magnolia grandiflora, Magnolia liliiflora, Magnolia boliviana, Magnolia liliifera, Magnolia stellata, Magnolia officinalis, Magnolia × soulangeana.

Common names: Southern Magnolia, Bull Bay tree, Evergreen Magnolia, Laurel Magnolia. This species is native to the southeastern United States

They are evergreen trees with a pyramidal or oval crown that reach 25 meters (82 feet) in height. The large leaves are leathery, wavy and pointed with a bright green upper surface and a reddish-brown underside. The flowers are large (up to 20 cm/7.87" in diameter), creamy white in color and produce a pleasant lemon scent. They bloom from summer to early fall. The fruits are reddish-brown pineapples.

Southern Magnolia is used as single specimens and in rows in public parks and streets.

Magnolia grandiflora prefers a semi-finished exposure but also grows in full sun as long as it is not too intense. It does not resist intense and continuous frosts.

Evergreen Magnolia prefers acidic, cool, well-drained soil containing chestnut or heather soil.

Water frequently so the soil never gets completely dry. Laurel Magnolia does not resist drought.

Bull Bay tree does not need pruning but accepts light pruning to maintain a compact appearance.

Magnolia grandiflora can be attacked by aphids in case of drought and by chlorosis.

Southern Magnolia is propagated by air layering, by cuttings and from seeds sown in spring but it is a very slow process.

Images of the tree Magnolia grandiflora or Southern Magnolia