Location for Planting Magnolia Trees

Magnolia trees produce fragrant blossoms.

Magnolia trees are large broad-leaf trees with large fragrant flowers. These trees grow and adapt in a wide range of soils and climates. Magnolia trees are native in the southern United States, Mexico, Central America, the West Indies and Asia.

Considerations

Magnolia trees grow best when planted in a location with full to partial sun. Young seedlings need protection from hot summer sunlight in the afternoon. Erect a sunshade beside the young magnolia tree until it is a few years old.

Significance

Magnolia trees need a location with fertile, good-draining soil with access to plenty of water. Wild magnolia trees grow near streams and swampy areas.

Warning

Magnolia trees prefer a site with a pH level between 5.0 and 6.5. Do not attempt to adjust the acidity of the soil without testing the pH level first.

Geography

Old-fashioned magnolia trees grow outside without protection in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 7 to 9. The newest varieties can withstand cold down to zone 5.

References

• Floridata: Magnolia Grandiflora
• Clemson University Extension: Magnolia