Trees

Magnolia virginiana

Sweetbay magnolia

Sweetbay magnolia, photograph; seasonal appearance varies.

Sweetbay magnolia is valued for fragrant pale flowers and foliage that can remain evergreen or become deciduous according to climate. The species occurs naturally in eastern North America and tolerates wetter ground than many magnolias. Its moderate dimensions and wildlife value make it a useful choice for a moist garden setting.

At a glance

Sun: Full sun to part shade
Size: Height: 10–35 ft · Width: 10–35 ft
Water: Consistently moist to wet soil
Hardiness: USDA 5a–10b
Bloom: Fragrant white; spring into summer

Sizes & prices

#5Sweetbay Magnolia, Very Fragrant Lg Blooms - extened bloom time - Evergreen 20 x 12'Call for price
#7Sweet Bay Magnolia$149.99
#15Sweetbay Magnolia$249.99

Catalog updated September 8, 2026. This is not a live stock count; please call to confirm availability and price.

Ask about this plant

Select a section to expand.

Landscape use & tree form

Use: Ornamental specimen
Form: Columnar; Conical; Multi-stemmed; Pyramidal; Rounded; Spreading; Vase
Growth rate: Rapid
Fruit / litter: Cone-like fruits open to show red seeds; fruit and seasonal leaves fall.
Major issues: Chlorosis in alkaline soil; occasional scale and leaf spots.

Resistance & tolerances

Deer: Some browsing resistance; not deer-proof. Protect young plants.
Drought: Generally drought sensitive; irrigate dry spells even though established plants show some adaptability.
Wet soil: Tolerates wet soils.

Resistance is not a guarantee; deer and rabbits may browse any plant.

Pollinators & wildlife

Caterpillar host: Swallowtail
Birds: Seeds provide food

Native range

Native range / parentage: Species native to eastern United States to Cuba.

Seasonal interest

Foliage: Deciduous to evergreen depending on climate

Growing & care

Site: Prefers acidic soil; unlike many magnolias, tolerates wet ground.
Pruning: Usually needs little pruning. For deciduous trees, make necessary shaping cuts in summer; avoid major winter or early-spring cuts.
Soil: Consistently moist to wet, acidic, organic-rich soil; alkaline soil may cause chlorosis.

Sources & photo credits

NC State Extension

University of Minnesota Extension

Royal Horticultural Society

The Morton Arboretum

Photo: Hope Duckworth / NC State Extension, CC BY 4.0 · CC BY 4.0

Image notes: Sweetbay magnolia, photograph; seasonal appearance varies. Resized and converted to WebP.

Reviewed September 22, 2026. Growing conditions vary by location.