Magnolia grandiflora

Magnolia grandiflora, commonly known as the southern magnolia or bull bay, is a tree of the family Magnoliaceae. Native to the southeastern United States, it is widely cultivated around the world for its large, fragrant flowers and glossy, evergreen leaves.

Description

Magnolia grandiflora is a large, broad-leaf evergreen tree that can grow up to 30 meters tall. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and leathery, with a rusty-brown underside. The large, fragrant flowers are white, with 6–12 petals and a yellow center. The fruit is a cone-like aggregate of follicles, each containing 1–2 seeds.

Distribution and habitat

The southern magnolia is native to the southeastern United States, from North Carolina to Florida and west to Texas. It grows in a variety of habitats, including mixed hardwood forests, pine flatwoods, and maritime forests. It is also widely cultivated as an ornamental tree in parks and gardens around the world.

Cultivation

Magnolia grandiflora is a popular ornamental tree due to its large, fragrant flowers and glossy, evergreen leaves. It prefers well-drained, acidic soil and full sun to partial shade. It is relatively tolerant of urban pollution and can be grown as a single specimen tree or in groups.

Uses

The wood of the southern magnolia is used for furniture, pallets, and veneer. The flowers are used in floral arrangements and the leaves are used in holiday decorations. The tree is also used in traditional medicine for the treatment of various ailments.

Conservation

While not currently threatened, Magnolia grandiflora is susceptible to a number of pests and diseases, including magnolia scale, verticillium wilt, and anthracnose. Conservation efforts include habitat preservation and the development of disease-resistant cultivars.

See also

• Magnolia
• Magnoliaceae
• Flora of the Southeastern United States

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