The Southern Magnolia grows in acidic, loamy, moist, sandy, well
drained, wide range, clay soils. The Southern Magnolia is a
bottomland tree in its natural habitat throughout the coastal
plains of the deep south. Its green leaves brighten the
landscape throughout the year and its large white flowers are
striking, not only for their beauty but for their rich
fragrance. It is the state tree of Mississippi. Large, creamy
white and very fragrant flowers grace this broad leafed
evergreen in late spring and early summer. Leaves are shiny
green, reddish underneath. Protect from winter winds and sun in
northern areas. Grows to 60' to 80', 40' spread. (zones 6-10)
The Southern Magnolia fruits are eaten by squirrels, rabbits, &
birds, including wild turkey. Magnolias are entwined with the
history of the south. Perhaps the one reaching back the farthest
into time is a Southern Magnolia that still grows in what today
is Washington State Park in Washington, Arkansas. According to
"Famous and Historic Trees," by Charles E.