big-leaf magnolia

tree

Also known as: Magnolia macrophylla

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July 16, 2026

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The big-leaf magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla) is a large shrub or medium-sized tree native to the southern United States. It is characterized by its long, silky leaves and large, white flowers with purple centers.1

The genus Magnolia encompasses about 225 species of trees and shrubs found in the Americas, Himalayas, and East Asia. These plants are admired for their sizable, fragrant flowers in various colors, attractive leaves, and unique fruits. While some magnolias are cultivated for ornamental purposes, others provide timber. The big-leaf magnolia is one of several notable species within the genus, including the sweet bay and cucumber tree.23

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magnolia
Major species
…feet) tall with leathery leaves; big-leaf magnolia (M. macrophylla), 15 metres (50 feet) tall with purple-based blooms; umbrella tree (M. tripetala), 12 metres (40 feet) tall with leaves 60 cm (2 feet) long that are sometimes used as rain shields; cucumber tree (M. acuminata), a 30-metre (100-foot) tree with cucumber-shaped…
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…feet) tall with leathery leaves; big-leaf magnolia (M. macrophylla), 15 metres (50 feet) tall with purple-based blooms; umbrella tree (M. tripetala), 12 metres (40 feet) tall with leaves 60 cm (2 feet) long that are sometimes used as rain shields; cucumber tree (M. acuminata), a 30-metre (100-foot) tree with cucumber-shaped…
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André Michaux
Contributions to science
…American plant species, including the bigleaf magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla), and introduced them to Europe. He recorded an account of his experiences in two books—Histoire des chênes de l’Amérique (1801; “Natural History of the Oaks of America”) and Flora Boreali-Americana (1803; “The Flora of North America”). His North American specimens are…
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…American plant species, including the bigleaf magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla), and introduced them to Europe. He recorded an account of his experiences in two books—Histoire des chênes de l’Amérique (1801; “Natural History of the Oaks of America”) and Flora Boreali-Americana (1803; “The Flora of North America”). His North American specimens are…
Read More