The Bigleaf Magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla) is a rare and striking native tree known for having the largest leaves of any tree in North America—often reaching up to 30 inches long. While it grows slowly, it makes a bold statement with its massive foliage, fragrant, creamy white flowers, and historical medicinal value.

Botanical & Landscape Features: This deciduous tree can behave like an evergreen in the South, especially in mild climates. It typically grows to 30–40 feet tall with a broad, spreading canopy of similar width. Its growth is slow and deliberate, taking up to 20 years to reach full maturity. This makes it an excellent specimen tree for lawns, gardens, or naturalized landscapes where its tropical-looking foliage and striking blooms can truly shine.

Flowers & Pollinators: Blooming in late spring, the large, creamy white flowers are highly fragrant and can span over 10 inches across, drawing butterflies, bees, and other pollinators. These blooms, combined with its bold leaves, give the Bigleaf Magnolia an exotic and unforgettable appearance.

Edibility & Historical Use: While not widely consumed today, parts of the tree are considered edible and have been used historically in traditional medicine and early pharmaceutical practices. The tree is still of interest to researchers studying its pharmacological potential and cultural significance.

Though uncommon in cultivation, the Bigleaf Magnolia is a treasured native species, admired for its ornamental beauty, pollinator support, and distinctive presence in the Southern and Eastern U.S. forests.