Southern Magnolia

Magnolia grandiflora

Growth Potential

Height: 15-80 feet depending on variety | Width: 10-40 feet depending on variety

Evergreen shade and big, fragrant white flowers

Southern Magnolia is a classic evergreen tree that works well in North Texas when it is planted in the right spot. Glossy dark green leaves stay on all year, and large, fragrant white flowers appear in late spring and summer.

Full-size trees grow very large, but compact varieties such as Little Gem stay much smaller and fit most residential yards.

Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

Best Area to Plant

Location:

  • Specimen tree in front yards
  • Evergreen screen along fences
  • Entry or courtyard accent
  • Large lawns with room to grow

Placement:

Plant in full sun to part shade with plenty of room, and choose a compact variety for small yards. Keep full-size trees well away from the house, driveways and utilities. Avoid alkaline, poorly drained spots, since our clay can cause yellowing leaves.

Care Instructions

  • Light:

    Full sun to part shade. It blooms best with at least 6 hours of sun.

  • Water:

    Water deeply and regularly the first two summers. Established trees tolerate some dry spells but look best with a deep soak every couple of weeks in the heat.

  • Maintenance:

    Low maintenance, but it drops leaves and seed pods year-round, so keep it away from pools and patios. Mulch the root zone and prune only to remove dead or crossing branches.