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Magnolia macrophylla
bigleaf magnolia
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Image © Don King |
Printer-friendly Fact Sheet
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| Outstanding Qualities |
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Bigleaf magnolia is in a class of its own. Its leaves demand such adjectives as enormous, luxuriant and opulent – evoking a subtropical feel in the garden. While they can reach almost 3 feet in length, its leaves are more commonly about 2 feet long. They are bright green with silver-gray undersides that shimmer in a light breeze. Needless to say, these huge leaves are easily damaged by wind, so use it in a protected woodland setting. There it provides delightful contrast with the fine textures of our native evergreens and other woodland plants. Bigleaf magnolia may take 12 to 15 years to start producing its 12- to 14-inch wide, fragrant, bowl-shaped, white flowers. Although you are unlikely to see into the flowers, as they are held so high overhead, each of the nine tepals usually has a deep purple stain at its base. Once it has begun to flower, it will produce its red fruits in late summer. |
| Culture |
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Place bigleaf magnolias in a protected location: strong winds can shred its oversized leaves. Its prefers fertile, humus-rich, well-drained soil. It needs regular watering to keep the bold leaves looking fresh. If you have the option, plant it when you can see into (and smell) its large flowers. Garden gently under magnolias, for they have fleshy roots that can easily be damaged. The best approach for companions plants is to tuck in natural spreaders and let them flourish untouched. |
| Growing Habit |
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This tree has an open, upright branching pattern that can be somewhat coarse or sparse. Ten-year-old trees reach 18 to 20 feet in height and 10 to 12 wide. Old trees can be as tall as 40 to 50 feet, spreading 30 to 35 feet wide. |
| Hardiness |
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USDA zones 6 to 8 |
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© 2009 Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden
Funded by the Pendleton and Elisabeth Carey Miller Charitable Foundation
Administered by the Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden