Magnolia grandiflora | Southern Magnolia | Bull Bay

The Magnolia grandiflora is native to southern America. It can be grown in many forms although naturally has a single trunk and a pyramidal shape. This is a large and striking evergreen tree that, from August to September, produces 30cm diameter white, saucer-like flowers with a lovely citrus aroma. In autumn, the flower matures into a rose-coloured fruit. Evergreen leaves are 20cm long x 12cm wide, dark and glossy green, stiff and leathery in appearance. Underneath, the leaves are a bronze colour and slightly furry. The Magnolia grandiflora will grow in full sun or partial shade and in most well-drained soil, even chalk. This tree prefers a sheltered position to avoid wind and frost damage to the thick, dense foliage. However it can be used for coastal planting if there is just a little salt spray. As a large, rounded bush or specimen tree the Magnolia grandiflora is a very popular evergreen, especially south of UK. There are many cultivars including: 'Galissoniere', 'Exmouth', 'Goliath' and 'Little Gem'.