Magnolia

I'm pretty sure the Southern Magnolia needs no introduction! These huge trees are truly impressive. The Southern Magnolias may not care for shallow rocky soils, which makes them a better choice for those east of I-35 where the Texas Blackland Prairie ecoregion offers deeper soil.

For those of us west of I-35 or who don't have the space for such a massive tree, take a look at the smaller Little Gem Magnolia or even the newer Teddy Bear Magnolia.

Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) Overview

Scientific Name: Magnolia grandiflora
Common Names: Southern Magnolia, Bull Bay
Native to: Southeastern United States
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 60–80 feet
Width: 30–50 feet
Winter Look: Evergreen; large, dark green, leathery leaves with a fuzzy, brown underside
Seasonal Interest: Large, fragrant white flowers in late spring to summer; attractive, glossy green leaves year-round
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; prefers regular moisture but can tolerate some drought once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, slightly acidic, moist soil
pH Range: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7–9
Deer Resistance: Moderate; deer may occasionally browse, but the plant is not a preferred food source
Attracts: Bees, pollinators, and birds (seeds)
Potential Issues: Susceptible Fungal diseases; can struggle in poorly-drained soils
Notes: Southern Magnolia is known for its striking, large white flowers and glossy, evergreen leaves. This majestic tree is commonly used in landscapes for its ornamental value and shade. While it thrives in warm climates, it does need well-drained, acidic soil and regular moisture to perform best.

Little Gem Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem') Overview

Scientific Name: Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'
Common Names: Little Gem Magnolia
Native to: Southeastern United States (cultivar of Magnolia grandiflora)
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 20–25 feet
Width: 10–15 feet
Winter Look: Evergreen; smaller, glossy dark green leaves with a brownish underside
Seasonal Interest: Fragrant white flowers in late spring to summer; compact, dense foliage that remains throughout the year
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; more drought-tolerant than the larger Southern Magnolia, once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, acidic, moist soil
pH Range: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7–9
Deer Resistance: Moderate; not a preferred food source for deer
Attracts: Bees, pollinators, and birds (seeds)
Potential Issues: May struggle in heavy clay soils or areas with poor drainage
Notes: The Little Gem Magnolia is a more compact, dwarf variety of the Southern Magnolia, offering similar fragrant flowers and evergreen foliage in a smaller package. It is ideal for smaller yards or as an accent tree while still providing the classic beauty of the larger magnolia species.

Teddy Bear Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora 'Teddy Bear') Overview

Scientific Name: Magnolia grandiflora 'Teddy Bear'
Common Names: Teddy Bear Magnolia
Native to: Southeastern United States (cultivar of Magnolia grandiflora)
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 15–20 feet
Width: 8–10 feet
Winter Look: Evergreen; smaller, deep green leaves with a velvety brown underside
Seasonal Interest: Fragrant white flowers in late spring to summer; compact and dense form with attractive foliage year-round
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; more drought-tolerant than standard Southern Magnolia, once established
Soil Requirements: Well-drained, slightly acidic soil
pH Range: 5.5–6.5 (slightly acidic)
Hardiness Zones: USDA Zones 7–9
Deer Resistance: Moderate; not highly attractive to deer
Attracts: Bees, pollinators, and birds (seeds)
Potential Issues: Can be susceptible to fungal issues; prefers well-drained, slightly acidic soil
Notes: The Teddy Bear Magnolia is a smaller, compact variety of the Southern Magnolia, known for its dense, rounded form and fragrant flowers. It is ideal for smaller landscapes or urban gardens where a more manageable size is desired while retaining the beauty and appeal of a full-sized magnolia tree. Its thick, glossy leaves give it a luxurious look year-round.