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Cornell University

Species: Magnolia virginiana

(mag-nol'ee-ah ver-jin-i-ay'nah)

Magnolia virginiana

Sweetbay Magnolia

Found on Course Walks

Low pH

Map of plant locations

(Plant location data may be incomplete)

In Collection(s):

None Listed

Cultivars

Several varieties exists for this plant although many are not commonly found in the trade currently. Selection for cold-hardy evergreen forms has been a focus.

'Green Shadow', 'Havener', 'Henry Hicks', 'Mardi Gras', 'Mattie Mae Smith', 'Milton', 'Moonglow', 'Northern Belle', 'Plena', 'Sweet Thing', 'Tensaw', 'var. australis'

Ornamental Characteristics

Tree < 30 feet

10' - 20' (spread 10' - 20')

Deciduous

single stem tree to large rounded shrub

tolerates shade; winter damage may be a problem; best in sheltered locations in zone 5

Environmental Characteristics

Full sun

5b

Requires acid (pH 5.0 to 7.0)

lemon-scented, waxy-white flowers appear in June; gray bark and silvery backed foliage make it an attractive shrub

Occasionally saturated or very wet soil; Consistently moist, well-drained soil; Occasional periods of dry soil
See graphic below

Insect Disease

No diseases listed

Bare Root Transplanting


Other

Native to Eastern and Midwestern N. America. Semi evergreen in a warmer climate

Native Range Map

Native Range Map Image

Moisture Tolerance Graphic

Please view this page on a tablet or larger screen for the moisture graph

Moisture Tolerance

Moisture graphic
Occasionally saturated or very wet soil
Consistently moist, well-drained soil
Occasional periods of dry soil
Prolonged periods of dry soil
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