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southern magnolia

plant
Also known as: Magnolia grandiflora, bull bay

Quick Summary

The southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is an evergreen tree native to the southeastern United States. It is recognized for its large, fragrant white flowers and handsome leaves. This species is also the state flower of Mississippi.123

Magnolias belong to the genus Magnolia, which comprises about 225 species of trees and shrubs found in the Americas, Himalayas, and East Asia. These plants are valued for their showy flowers, which can be white, yellow, pink, or purple, and their attractive foliage. The family Magnoliaceae is considered primitive in evolutionary terms, with a fossil record indicating a wider distribution in the past. While some magnolias are used for timber, their primary importance is as ornamental plants in horticulture.142

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