Sweetbay Magnolia

Magnolia virginiana

Overview

The Flowered Sweetbay Magnolia ranges in height from 10 feet to 35 feet and take on a rounded shape. The oval leaves, which are 2 to 5 inches long, are a dark green on top and silvery underneath, giving a dynamic look to the tree. When the tree is young it has smooth, gray bark and as it matures turns brown and furrowed. In the late spring, the Sweetbay Magnolia produces beautiful white flowers featuring a lemon-like fragrance. Around the same time, it produces cone-like fruits with red seeds. 

Cultivation

The Sweetbay Magnolia grows at a relatively slow rate, which is very manageable for personal landscapes. This tree can flourish in a multitude of soil types, generally preferring moist or wet conditions and slightly acidic, well-drained soils. 

Biodiversity Sustained 

The fruits produced by the Sweetbay Magnolia provide an excellent food source for birds and other small animals. They serve as a temporary shelter for birds in migration and can provide permanent housing for songbirds.

On Xavier's Campus, over the Next 20 Years, this Tree will:

Stormwater Runoff Intercepted: 1,159 Gallons

CO2 Reduction: 208 lbs

Environmental Benefits (in US dollars) Over the Next Decade: $202