Magnolia grandiflora (Southern Magnolia)
This a gigantic evergreen in mature form, starts to bloom around May in Roanoke. The tree then blooms on and off almost all summer. It is one of the most beautiful, but messiest trees because of large falling leaves, dropped decaying petals, and the cone-like fruit.
There are many smaller cultivars of this species. The dwarf "Little Gem" is one; growing moderately to 20 to 25 ft. tall, and 10 to 15 ft. wide.
Emerging Bug; Leaf to left shows winter damage |
Opening flower; petals emerge in groups of three |
Closeup of emerging anthers; pistils below |
Flowers emerge at tips of branches in random order |
Magnificent specimen; compare to size of car and garage; not an optical illusion |