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Sweetbay Magnolia Tree

Sweetbay Magnolia Tree

$7.95 USD
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Magnolia Virginiana

The Sweetbay Magnolia Tree (Bare Root) (Magnolia virginiana) is a graceful, multi-season ornamental tree known for its creamy white, lemon-scented blooms, semi-evergreen foliage, and smooth silver-gray bark. Native to the southeastern United States, this moderately fast-growing tree is ideal for moist soils, rain gardens, and decorative landscaping. With its pollinator-friendly flowers, wildlife value, and year-round beauty, the Sweetbay Magnolia is a must-have for both residential and naturalized settings.

Sweetbay Magnolia Tree (Bare Root) Overview

Attribute Details
Variety Bare Root
Botanical Name Magnolia virginiana
Common Names Sweetbay Magnolia, Swamp Magnolia
Mature Height 15-35 feet (can reach 50 feet in southern climates)
Mature Width 10-20 feet
Growth Rate Moderate (1-2 feet per year)
Lifespan 50-100 years
USDA Hardiness Zones 5-9
Sun Preference Full sun to partial shade
Soil Type Moist, well-drained, loamy, sandy, or slightly acidic soils
Soil pH Slightly acidic to neutral (5.5-6.5)
Water Needs Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture but tolerates short dry periods once established
Flowering Season Late spring through summer
Flower Color Creamy white with a lemon fragrance
Fall Foliage Glossy green leaves with silvery undersides; may remain evergreen in mild climates
Wildlife Attraction Bees, butterflies, birds, and small mammals
Growth Habit Upright, oval to rounded canopy; multi- or single-trunked
Self-Pollinating? Yes
Landscape Uses Specimen tree, rain garden, pollinator habitat, ornamental planting, wetland buffer
Maintenance Level Low to moderate

Environmental Benefits

🌼 Pollinator Support – Attracts bees, butterflies, and beneficial insects with its fragrant, long-blooming flowers.

🦜 Wildlife Habitat – Provides cover and berries for birds and small mammals, enhancing biodiversity.

💧 Ideal for Moist Sites & Rain Gardens – Naturally thrives in low-lying and wetland areas, helping manage water runoff and prevent erosion.

🌳 Air Quality & Urban Tolerance – Filters air pollutants and adapts well to urban environments with low-maintenance needs.

Pros & Cons

Pros Cons
Fragrant, creamy white blooms from late spring into summer Prefers moist soils and may struggle in dry, compacted areas
Semi-evergreen in southern zones, offering year-round foliage May be deciduous in colder zones (zones 5-6)
Attracts pollinators and provides wildlife value Slower growth compared to some ornamental trees
Excellent choice for rain gardens and wetlands Not ideal for extremely dry or alkaline soils
Beautiful, smooth bark and silvery leaf undersides Can be sensitive to transplant shock if not watered consistently early on

Planting & Care Guide (Bare Root)

  • Spacing: Plant 10-20 feet apart for full canopy development or naturalized groupings

  • Soaking: Soak bare root in water for 6–12 hours before planting

  • Planting Depth: Dig a hole twice the width of the root system, ensuring roots sit just below soil level

  • Mulching: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch to retain moisture and regulate soil temperature

  • Pruning: Prune lightly in late winter or early spring to remove any damaged or crossed branches

  • Fertilization: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring during the first 2–3 years

  • Watering: Keep soil evenly moist, especially in the first year and during hot weather

The Sweetbay Magnolia Tree (Bare Root) is a refined, fragrant, and wildlife-friendly addition to any landscape. With its season-long blooms, attractive foliage, and adaptability to wet soils, this native ornamental tree is perfect for home gardens, pollinator habitats, and rain gardens alike.

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