Bigleaf Magnolia

Common Names

Bigleaf Magnolia, Umbrella Tree, Large-Leaved Cucumber Tree, Great-Leaved Macrophylla

Summary

Bigleaf magnolia is a deciduous tree native to North America, especially the southeastern United States, that typically reaches about 30–40 feet tall and wide with a broad crown. It features enormous leaves up to 30 inches long and green above with a silvery underside, and very fragrant creamy-white cup-shaped flowers 8–14 inches across, followed by red cone-like fruits.

In cultivation it prefers moist, organically rich, well-drained loams in full sun to partial shade, with acidic to neutral soil (roughly pH 5.0–7.0) and protection from strong winds. It is slow-growing and may not bloom until after many years, often 12–15, requiring a sheltered site with adequate space. Propagation can be by seed or semi-hardwood cuttings, and the plant serves as a striking specimen or shade tree, while attracting butterflies and hummingbirds and providing wildlife with fruit.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

360-480 inches

Spread

360-480 inches

Hardiness Zones

Zones 5-8

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun to Partial Shade; tolerates Full Sun, Partial Sun, or Partial Shade.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained loamy soil rich in organic matter, acidic to neutral.

Soil Drainage

Consistently moist, well-drained soil.

Soil pH

5.0-7.0, Slightly acidic to neutral

Bloom Color

Creamy-white to White, sometimes with purple bases

Bloom Time

Spring to Summer

Foliage Color

Green on the top with a silvery-gray underside.

Fall Foliage Color

No color change.

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Slow, up to about 1 foot per year.

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Layering

Attracts Wildlife

Attracts birds, Attracts butterflies and hummingbirds