40 CityTREES
Adequate soil volume is critical to its success;
thus it does best in parks, wide tree lawns, and
other expansive settings. A vast root system
and vulnerability to transplant shock can make
it challenging to transplant. Storms and other
weather events can potentially cause damage
to the tree. Also, too much water can be det-
rimental to the Southern magnolia's health.
Even with these caveats, the Southern magnolia
is a gorgeous tree species that once estab-
lished, can thrive in the city. In Louisiana, you
can find it growing in parks, gardens, and even
on the side of the road. If used near sidewalks,
it will require pruning of lower limbs over time.
Structural pruning of young trees can eliminate
branches with tight crotch angles that are prone
to breakage. Some people object to the fruit
"litter" of this monoecious tree, but the fruit/
seeds are popular with birds including doves,
woodpeckers and wild turkeys, providing them
food and ideal cover. Numerous cultivars are
available for specific forms, improved cold har-
diness, or enhanced ornamental attributes.
Aggregate fruit of Southern magnolia with exposed
seeds. Photo by Pmsyyz, Magnolia grandiflora,
Omeka@CTL, accessed April 24, 2023.
Young tree habit of Southern magnolia. Photo
from Cornell Woody Plants Database
Underside of the leaves. Photo from
Cornell Woody Plants Database
