MAGNOLIA
(SOUTHERN MAGNOLIA)

The handsome southern magnolia is not native to the Historic Triangle area but was probably brought here from the deep South by plantation owners. The natural range of the tree is from the coast of North Carolina to the Louisiana swamps where it reaches perfection.

The leaves of the magnolia are leathery in texture and appear to be coated in wax. The leaves are five to ten inches long and two to three inches wide and are prized for flower arrangements.

Magnolia trees which grow to a height of eighty feet have straight trunks up to four feet in diameter. In June and July, white flowers, large as dinner plates appear and, against dark green foliage, can be seen for long distances. They have a heavy sweetness yet are so delicate that the slightest touch produces discoloration. The fruit of the magnolia is a cone that is a rusty red when the seeds are ripe.

Swamp bays, much smaller in size, are close relatives to the stately southern magnolia.