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How to Grow Southern Magnolia

Reviewed by MyLocalPlanting Editorial Team Updated Sources
Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)

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Plant nursery stock — skip years of growing from seed.

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Supplies You'll Need

Watering Can

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Plant Overview

Scientific Name Magnolia grandiflora
Category tree
Type Evergreen Tree (nursery stock)
Starting Method Nursery Stock

Growing Requirements

Sun

Full Sun to Part Shade

Water

Moderate

Spacing

40 ft apart

Height

40-60 ft

Ready to Plant Southern Magnolia?

Buy nursery-quality plants and skip years of growing from seed.

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Companion Planting Guide for Southern Magnolia

Discover which plants grow well with Southern Magnolia and which to keep at a distance for a healthier garden →

Seed Saving Guide

Vegetative propagation

Propagate vegetatively, not by seed

Buy a container-grown nursery tree; magnolias have fleshy, easily damaged roots and are not started from seed at home.

Southern Magnolia Planting Calendar by Zone

Zone 1a Zone 1b Zone 2a Zone 2b Zone 3a Zone 3b Zone 4a Zone 4b Zone 5a Zone 5b Zone 6a Zone 6b Zone 7a Zone 7b Zone 8a Zone 8b Zone 9a Zone 9b Zone 10a Zone 10b Zone 11a Zone 11b Zone 12a Zone 12b Zone 13a

Southern Magnolia Planting Calendar by State

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Frequently Asked Questions

When should I plant Southern Magnolia? +

Plant container-grown or bare-root Southern Magnolia in early spring, 4 weeks before your last frost date — or in early fall once summer heat breaks. Use the search on this page to find exact dates for your location.

Should I start Southern Magnolia indoors or direct sow? +

Neither — Southern Magnolia isn't grown from seed at home. Buy a container-grown or bare-root plant from a nursery and plant it outdoors at the right time for your local frost dates.

How much sun does Southern Magnolia need? +

Southern Magnolia requires full sun to part shade to thrive.

How far apart should I plant Southern Magnolia? +

Space Southern Magnolia plants 480 inches apart to allow adequate airflow and root development.

How much water does Southern Magnolia need? +

Southern Magnolia has moderate water needs. Consistent moisture is important especially during germination and early growth.

Can you save seeds from Southern Magnolia? +

Southern Magnolia is not typically propagated by seed. Buy a container-grown nursery tree; magnolias have fleshy, easily damaged roots and are not started from seed at home.

About Southern Magnolia

Iconic broadleaf evergreen with glossy leaves and huge, lemon-scented white blooms in early summer. Plant container stock in early spring; roots are wide and shallow, so pick its permanent spot carefully — magnolias resent being moved.

Use the search above or browse by zone or state to find the perfect planting dates for your location.