Magnolia Species Native to Southeast Kansas

Five Magnolias Found in Southeast Kansas

Southeast Kansas supports these magnolia species, ranging from native to naturalized:

1. Magnolia macrophylla – Bigleaf magnolia (native, rare)
2. Magnolia acuminata – Cucumbertree magnolia (native)
3. Magnolia soulangeana – Saucer magnolia (widely planted, naturalized)
4. Magnolia grandiflora – Southern magnolia (planted, survives in protected sites)
5. Magnolia tripetala – Umbrella magnolia (native to nearby Ozarks, occurs in SE Kansas)

Growing Tips for Kansas

• Choose M. acuminata or M. soulangeana for best cold hardiness.
• Plant in moist, well-drained, acidic soil (pH 5.5–6.5).
• Mulch heavily; protect from southwest winter wind.
• Southern magnolia needs a sheltered courtyard microclimate.

For native woodland restoration, prioritize cucumbertree and umbrella magnolia.