Magnolia Trees: Southern & Saucer Varieties for Western Gardens

Magnolias offer remarkable variety in color, leaf shape, and form. Here are two standout examples—one evergreen, one deciduous—from the many species available at well-stocked nurseries.

Planting Essentials

Plant in fairly rich, well-drained, neutral to acid soil. Magnolias have shallow, fleshy roots easily damaged by digging or compaction. Best locations: lawn (with wide grass-free area around trunk) or shrub border. Stake single-trunked or heavy trees to prevent wind-rocking, which tears sensitive roots.

Southern Magnolia (M. grandiflora)

Zones: 4–12, 14–24, 26–33 | Evergreen
Reaching 80 feet tall and 40 feet wide, this statuesque tree offers year-round beauty. Thick, leathery, deep green leaves (up to 8 inches) often have rust-colored undersides. Huge, pure white, powerfully fragrant flowers appear in late spring and summer (may not bloom until 10+ years old). Surface roots lift pavement; dense shade and roots eventually defeat lawn beneath.

Saucer Magnolia (M. soulangiana)

Zones: 2–10, 12–24, 28–41 | Deciduous
Often misnamed "tulip tree," this slow grower reaches 25 feet high and wide. Goblet-shaped blossoms (up to 6 inches) range from white to pink or purplish red, opening before coarse, 4- to 6-inch leaves expand. Late frosts damage buds; in cold-winter areas, choose late-flowering selections like 'Lennei' or 'Alexandrina'.