Teddy Bear? Southern Magnolia Tree - Magnolia grandiflora 'Teddy Bear'

Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia Tree (Magnolia grandiflora 'Teddy Bear')

This compact magnolia variety brings together timeless elegance and modern practicality, making it an ideal choice for gardeners working with limited space. The Teddy Bear® Southern Magnolia combines lush, glossy green foliage that persists throughout the year with fragrant, ivory-colored blooms that appear seasonally. When you buy Teddy Bear Southern Magnolia online from Florida Plant Nursery, you're investing in a tree that performs beautifully in urban gardens, smaller yards, and container settings.

Landscaping Uses

This tree excels as a focal point in foundation plantings, border arrangements, or standalone specimens in modest-sized landscapes. Its manageable proportions make it perfect for patios, courtyards, and entryways where full-sized magnolias would overwhelm the space. The evergreen canopy provides year-round screening and privacy, while the pollinator-friendly flowers create visual interest during blooming season. Plant it in locations receiving full sun to dappled afternoon shade for optimal growth and flowering.

Specifications

Height: 20–25 feet
Width: 10–15 feet
Growth Rate: Moderate
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant when established
Soil: Well-draining, amended clay acceptable
USDA Zones: 6–10

Why Homeowners Love It

• Maintains rich green foliage year-round for consistent garden beauty
• Produces sweetly scented, creamy-white flowers that attract pollinators and wildlife
• Compact growth habit fits seamlessly into smaller residential properties
• Low-maintenance once established with minimal pruning requirements

Planting & Care

Plant within four weeks of arrival in a location with full sun to partial shade, ensuring the soil drains well and amending heavy clay with compost as needed. Dig a planting hole twice the width of the root ball, position the tree so the top of the root ball aligns with ground level, and backfill with a compost-soil blend. Apply a 3-inch mulch layer extending to the branch tips, keeping it several inches from the trunk, then water thoroughly. During establishment, maintain consistently moist (not waterlogged) soil with deep watering about twice weekly through the growing season. Once mature, the tree tolerates drought well but appreciates occasional watering during extended dry periods. Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain form, avoiding aggressive pruning that disrupts the tree's natural silhouette. In early spring as new growth emerges, apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer, taking care not to over-feed as excessive nutrients can reduce flowering in favor of leaf production.