Evergreen Sweetbay Magnolia

Magnolia virginiana var australis

The Sweetbay Magnolia, scientifically known as Magnolia virginiana, is a beautiful and versatile tree native to the southeastern United States. It is highly valued for its fragrant flowers, attractive foliage, and adaptability to various growing conditions. 

1. Appearance: The Sweetbay Magnolia is a medium-sized, deciduous or semi-evergreen tree that typically reaches heights of 20 to 40 feet (6 to 12 meters) with a spread of 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters). It has a pyramidal to rounded crown and a graceful, open form. 

2. Flowers: One of the main attractions of the Sweetbay Magnolia is its fragrant flowers. The blossoms are creamy white and have a lemony scent. They are smaller than those of other magnolia species, measuring about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 centimeters) in diameter. The flowers typically bloom in late spring to early summer and continue sporadically throughout the summer months.

3. Foliage: The leaves of the Sweetbay Magnolia are oblong to elliptical-shaped and medium green in color. They have a smooth texture and a silvery underside, which creates an attractive contrast. The foliage provides a lush and appealing appearance throughout the growing season.

MAINTENANCE NEEDS:  Low Maintenance. Regular water in first year.

LANDSCAPE USES: Specimen or Group Plantings, Borders, Woodland Gardens, Privacy Screen, and Foundation Plantings.

COMPANION PLANTS: Gibraltar Azalea, Oakleaf Hydrangea,  Gardenia Radicans

IMAGES:   Plant Image Library,  Magnolia virginiana var. australis (Sweetbay Magnolia) (36279091321), CC BY-SA 2.0, (2) Photo by David J. Stang,  Magnolia virginiana var. australis 5zz, CC BY-SA 4.0, (3)  Plant Image Library,  Magnolia virginiana var. australis (Sweet-bay Magnolia) (32122860713),  CC BY-SA 2.0, (4)  Plant Image Library from Boston, USA,  Magnolia virginiana var. australis (Sweetbay Magnolia) (36415538275),  CC BY-SA 2.0, (5) 

 *As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.