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An iconic tree of the south, magnolias are beautiful in both form, leaf, and flower. Widely for their fragrant blooms, they also provide winter interest with both their seedpods and shiny evergreen leaves which are often used in wreaths.

Latin Name

Magnolia grandiflora


Family

Magnoliaceae


Also Known As

Bull Bay


Type of Plant

Trees Trees

Bloom Season

May - June

Seasons

Summer Summer
Spring Spring

Specifications

Max height Max Height: 80'
Max spread Max Spread: 50'

Uses

  • Flowering Tree
  • Shade Tree

  • Sunlight Exposure

    Full Sun Full Sun
    Part Shade Part Shade

    Tolerances

  • Air Pollution

  • Attracted Wildlife

    Birds Birds

    Colors


    Native Range

    Southeastern United States


    History

    In March of 1785, Washington planted magnolias west of the Garden Houses.


    Other Details

    Pollinator Pollinator

    Planted at Mount Vernon

    Planted at Mount Vernon Botanical Garden

  • Botanical Garden

  • Hardiness Zones

    7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b USDA basemap

    Average annual extreme minimum temperature 1976-2005

    map legend 7a 7b 8a 8b 9a 9b

    Bartlett Tree Expert Company has been working with Mount Vernon Estate since 2011 providing expert arboricultural care and GPS mapping for the estate’s historic trees, as well as support from their research facility.   Mount Vernon is proud to partner with Bartlett Tree Experts and appreciates their sponsorship of George Washington’s Mount Vernon Plant Finder App.

    Bring Washington's Garden Home

    Purchase our historic seeds, collected from plants grown at Mount Vernon and plant them in your own garden.

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