Southern Magnolia - Magnolia grandiflora

Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

The Southern Magnolia is a stunning evergreen tree that delivers year-round beauty with its glossy foliage and magnificent blooms. Known for its large, fragrant white flowers that appear from late spring through early fall, this native American tree works beautifully as both a focal point and a privacy screen. When you buy Southern Magnolia online from Florida Plant Nursery, you receive a healthy, vigorous specimen ready to establish quickly in your landscape.

Landscaping Uses

Plant your Southern Magnolia in full sun locations where it can serve as a striking specimen tree or living screen. This adaptable species works well in varied soil conditions and tolerates flooding, making it ideal for challenging garden spots. Use it as a backdrop for shrub borders, a shade provider for seating areas, or a focal point in open lawns. The tree's substantial size and dense canopy also create excellent shelter and food sources for wildlife throughout the seasons.

Specifications

Height: 60–80 feet
Width: 30–40 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
Sun: Full sun (6–8 hours daily)
Water: Regular during establishment; drought tolerant thereafter
Soil: Adaptable; prefers well-drained conditions
USDA Zones: 6–10

Why Homeowners Love It

• Produces large, creamy-white flowers with a sweet fragrance for months during the growing season
• Maintains rich green foliage year-round, providing consistent color and structure
• Cold hardy down to 10 degrees Fahrenheit, expanding growing possibilities northward
• Requires minimal maintenance once established and tolerates drought, flooding, and multiple soil types

Planting & Care

Choose a location with at least six to eight hours of direct sunlight and space away from hardscaping to allow for mature growth. Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball and equally deep, then position the tree while backfilling and tamping gently to eliminate air pockets. Water thoroughly after planting and apply mulch to retain moisture. During the first year, water weekly or biweekly; mature trees typically need supplemental water only during extended dry periods. Apply a controlled-release fertilizer in early spring if new growth appears slow, following product instructions carefully.