Magnolia virginiana 'Australis'

Sweetbay Magnolia

Var. austrlis is primarily found in the far southern United States and is distinguished from the species by having a layer of woolly, white hairs on the pedicles (flower stems) and new growth. It also grows more tree-like and remains evergreen in winter.

Sweetbay magnolia, also called swamp magnolia, will grow in wet soils. It is found in nature in bogs and swampy areas. This evergreen multi-stemmed shrub or tree has glossy, laurel-like, dark green leaves on the upper surface and silvery pubescence on the bottom side. The silver underside is especially pretty when the wind buffets the leaves. Creamy white, cup-like flowers, 2-3 inches in diameter are lemon-scented.  Seed cones are 2" long and filled with bright red seeds which dangle from the fruits.

This is a larval host plant for Spicebush Swallowtail and Eastern Tiger Swallowtail. Seeds are eaten by birds and small mammals. It is a favorite tree of the sapsucker woodpeckers.

Good choice for moist soils, streambanks, and wildlife gardens.

  • Graceful, native evergreen
  • Lemon-scented, white flowers
  • Grows well in wet soil

Login for pricing

j

Landscape Characteristics
Flowers
Foliage Color
Fragrance
Ornamental Fruit
Specialty Use
Butterfly Garden
Wildlife Garden
Attracts Wildlife
Attracts Butterflies
Attracts Songbirds
Classification by Use
Color Impact
Native
Habit
Upright
Light Requirement
Part Shade
Part Sun
Sun
Foliage
Evergreen
Season of Interest (Flowering)
Spring
Summer
Season of Interest (Foliage)
Fall
Spring
Summer
Winter
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Moisture
Average Water
Well-Drained
Wet Soil/Wetlands
Foliage Color
Green
Growing & Maintenance Tips for Magnolia virginiana 'Australis'

Different from other Magnolias because it grows well in wet soil. Requires acidic soil and tolerates shade. May get winter damage in Zone 5.