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| If there is a single tree species that epitomizes the American South, Southern Magnolia is it, conjuring visions of mysterious, moss-draped swamps and graceful avenues of the low-country. Although essentially a coastal plain plant, this tree is easily adapted to a variety of habitats away from the coast. Frequently, birds will eat and then later drop its seeds, so that trees may sometimes be found in unexpected sites. It is a valuable shade tree, and old individuals often attain great size. The flowers are powerfully and very memorably fragrant, attracting many insects. Shortly after the flowers open, the old anthers fallen away may be seen collected at the bases of the petals in vase-like blossoms. Native to Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Plains, North Carolina south to Central Florida, west to eastern Texas. |