Identifying Characteristics
| Size/Form: | The southern magnolia is a moderately large tree that reaches 60' to 90' in height. It is characterized as being one of the most beautiful native trees. The crown is conical and symmetrical in shape. |
| Leaves: | The large, persistent leaves are alternately arranged and are 5" to 8" in length. The leaves appear to be oblong and slightly turned under at the edges. Each thick leaf is a shiny dark green above with fine rust colored hairs below. |
| Bark: | The bark on the young southern magnolia is dark gray and smooth but becomes furrowed and scaly as the tree matures. |
| Flowers: | The large fragrant flowers are white and bloom in late spring and summer. |
| Fruit: | The fruit is an aggregate of hairy tan to dull orange-red follicles. They mature in early autumn and the bright red seeds hang out of each follicle for a short time before falling to the ground. |
Similar Trees on the Florida 4-H Forest Ecology Contest List:
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