Southern Magnolia
Magnolia grandiflora · Magnoliaceae (Magnolia family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, evergreen
Shape
Elliptical to oblong with an acute apex and cuneate base
Margin
Entire and slightly revolute (rolled under at the edges)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Pinnate with a prominent, thick midrib and raised secondary veins
Key Features
Stiff, leathery, evergreen leaves with glossy dark green upper surfaces and rusty-brown pubescent undersides, combined with large aromatic white flowers and cone-like aggregate fruits containing red seeds
Description
Magnolia grandiflora is a magnificent, large evergreen tree known for its dense, pyramidal crown, massive fragrant white flowers, and large, leathery dark green leaves. The fallen leaves curl and dry into a stiff, parchment-like texture, maintaining a rich golden-brown hue on their undersides.
Habitat
Typically found in lowland subtropical forests, along swamp margins, and on moist, well-draining soils near streams; highly adaptable and widely planted in urban and suburban landscapes
Native Range
Native to the southeastern United States from coastal North Carolina south to central Florida and west to East Texas; widely cultivated in warm temperate regions worldwide