Species

Magnolia grandifloraSouthern Magnolia

6 other cultivars

treeN. America Native

Southern Magnolia

Magnolia grandiflora 'Little Gem'

$66.95

The Story

Plant Bio

Magnolia grandiflora is a broadleaf evergreen tree native to the southeastern United States, characterized by its large, leathery leaves and fragrant, cup-shaped flowers. The species forms a substantial, spreading canopy and thrives in warm, humid climates with moist, well-drained soils.

'Little Gem' is a compact, slow-growing cultivar that reaches only a fraction of the species' mature size, making it ideal for smaller gardens or tight spaces. It is distinguished by its narrow, upright habit and dense foliage with a highly pronounced, rusty-brown fuzzy coating on the leaf undersides.

Uses & Benefits:

Features glossy evergreen leaves with striking bronze undersides and highly fragrant, large white flowers.

Functions as an effective, narrow privacy screen that tolerates coastal salt spray and urban conditions.

Provides pollen for native bees and beetles, and offers dense year-round nesting cover for birds.

SpeciesMagnolia grandifloraSouthern Magnolia

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

358"

Width

118"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

High

Lifespan

Long

Native To

Southeastern United States

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Spring – Fall

In flower about 9 months of the year

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a planting site in full sun to partial shade with rich, moist, and well-draining soil.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper, ensuring the top of the root ball sits slightly above the surrounding soil level to prevent rot.
Backfill with native soil, water deeply to settle the roots, and apply a thick layer of organic mulch to retain moisture.
Water regularly during the first two to three growing seasons to establish a deep, resilient root system.

Pro Tip

Avoid shearing this cultivar into a tight formal shape, as cutting back into old, leafless wood prevents new growth and removes the terminal buds where flowers form.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a year in early spring.
Mulch annually to protect the shallow root system and maintain consistent soil moisture.
Prune lightly in spring after the first heavy bloom cycle to shape the canopy.

Don't

Do not plant in low-lying areas prone to standing water or prolonged waterlogging.
Do not prune heavily into old, bare wood, as it will not regenerate well.
Do not panic when the tree drops a portion of its older leaves in spring, as this is a natural shedding process before new growth emerges.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Fertilize
Mulch
Pest Check
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Compact specimen tree for lawns or courtyardsNarrow privacy screen or informal hedgeLarge container plant for patios

Companion Plants

Camellia japonica Gardenia jasminoides Hydrangea quercifolia

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Southern Magnolia questions

What zones can Southern Magnolia grow in?

Southern Magnolia is hardy in USDA Zones 7–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Southern Magnolia deer resistant?

Not reliably. Deer may browse Southern Magnolia, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.

When does Southern Magnolia bloom?

Southern Magnolia typically blooms in spring through fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Southern Magnolia need full sun?

Southern Magnolia does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Southern Magnolia drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Southern Magnolia handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.