Sweetbay

Magnolia virginiana var. virginiana

$23.00

| Hardiness Zones 5-9

Sweetbay Magnolia is a common tree of moist soil areas in eastern United States where it ranges from Massachusetts to Texas. The northern plants (Magnolia virginiana var. virginiana) are deciduous and the southern (Magnolia virginiana var. australis) are larger trees and are evergreen. The 4-5 inch long leaves are white beneath and the 2-3 inch wide flowers are very fragrant. These are plants of the northern form which are usually small multi-stemmed trees that are tardily deciduous. These are grown from seed from northern limit in Massachusetts.
Plant Specs
  • Zones: 5 - 9
  • Sun: Full Sun and Part Shade
  • Soil: Moist
  • Height at Maturity: 20 - 40 Feet
  • Spread at Maturity: 15 - 20 Feet
  • Growth Rate: Fast

Tardily Deciduous
Flower/Foliage

White, fragrant, early summer
Care Info

Read full care instruction manual here.

Watering

  • Establishment Period: Water deeply 1–2 times per week during the first year, especially in dry periods.
  • Mature Trees: Sweetbay Magnolia thrives in consistently moist soils but can tolerate brief periods of drought once established. Supplemental watering may be required during prolonged dry spells.

Soil and Mulching

  • Soil Preferences: Prefers wet, well-drained soils but tolerates heavy clay or sandy soils if moisture is maintained.
  • Mulching: Apply a 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the base of the tree to retain soil moisture, regulate temperature, and suppress weeds. Keep mulch 2–3 inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

Light Requirements

  • Performs best in full sun to partial shade. Full sun encourages more abundant flowering, while partial shade enhances foliage quality.

Pruning

  • Prune in late winter or early spring while the tree is dormant.
  • Remove any dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain structure and health.
  • Minimal pruning is required, as the tree naturally develops a pleasing, rounded shape.

Fertilization

  • Fertilize in early spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer to support healthy growth and flowering.
  • Alternatively, topdress with organic compost or aged manure annually.

Pests and Diseases

  • Pests: Generally pest-resistant but may attract occasional scale insects or aphids. Treat infestations with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if necessary.
  • Diseases: Rarely affected by diseases but may develop leaf spot or powdery mildew in overly humid conditions with poor air circulation.

Growth Rate and Mature Size

  • Growth Rate: Moderate to Fast; 1–2 feet per year.
  • Mature Size: Typically reaches 20–40 feet in height and 15–20 feet in spread, though it may grow taller in ideal wetland conditions.

Special Considerations

  • Sweetbay Magnolia is an excellent choice for wetland restoration, rain gardens, or areas prone to flooding.
  • Its fragrant flowers and glossy foliage make it a standout ornamental tree for gardens.
  • Deer tend to avoid this tree, making it suitable for areas with high deer populations.

By following these care tips, Magnolia virginiana var. virginiana will thrive, adding elegance, fragrance, and ecological benefits to your landscape.

Pickup available at Aiken Nursery

Usually ready in 2-4 days

Grown in Aiken, South Carolina

At Woodlanders, we are committed to quality.

All our plant material is carefully propagated, grown, and nurtured at our humble nursery in Aiken, South Carolina.

Learn more about Woodlanders here.

Here’s a closer look at how we produce our plants:
from rooting to shipping, our top priority is ensuring you receive healthy, thriving plants for your garden’s success.

The majority of our plants are carefully cultivated from rooted cuttings, while we also utilize propagation methods such as seed, air layering, and grafting, thoughtfully chosen to suit each plant’s unique needs.

Our plants are cultivated using sustainable practices, including organic soil blends and eco-friendly pest management, ensuring they thrive while minimizing environmental impact.

We are proud to contribute to local biodiversity through ongoing donations to the Aiken Arboretum and support for local wildlife conservation efforts, helping to preserve and enhance our community’s natural ecosystems.

Plant Success Tip #1

Unpack Promptly

Carefully unpack your plant as soon as it arrives. Check the roots and soil to ensure they are still moist. If the roots feel dry, lightly mist or water them before proceeding with planting or temporary storage.

Plant Success Tip #2

Acclimate Your Plant

Allow your plant to adjust to its new environment by placing it in a sheltered spot for a day or two before planting, especially if it has traveled a long distance. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperatures right away.

Plant Success Tip #3

Follow Planting and Care Instructions

Plant your new arrival as soon as possible, following the specific care guidelines provided. If planting outdoors isn’t immediately possible, temporarily pot it in well-draining soil to maintain health until conditions are suitable.

Read Care Instructions

Frequently Asked Questions

What to expect upon delivery

All our plants are sold in 1-gallon sizes, though the height of each plant can vary depending on its growth rate and seasonality, typically ranging from 1/2 to 2.5 feet.

Each plant is carefully packaged with its roots enclosed in a secure plastic bag containing moist soil, forming a compact root ball. To ensure safe transport, the box is padded with recycled newspaper, providing both stability and eco-friendly protection from weather during shipping.
What is your return policy?

Review our full return policy information on our SHIPPING AND RETURNS POLICY page.
What payment methods can I use?

We offer 35 different payment methods including major providers like Mastercard, Visa, PayPal, American Express and Diners as well as many different local payment methods including Klarna, iDEAL, AliPay, Sofort, giropay, and many more.
Can I make changes to my order after it’s been placed?

At Woodlanders, we strive to fulfill orders as quickly as possible. Therefore, we can only accommodate changes to your order within the first 24 hours after it has been placed. These changes include adding or removing products and modifying the delivery address. If you need to make any changes or if there has been a mistake with your order information, please reach out to us promptly via our CONTACT page with your order number for the quickest resolution.

Your satisfaction is our priority, and we appreciate your understanding and cooperation.