Southern Magnolia
Magnolia grandiflora ‘Kay Parris’
This superb dwarf selection was made by Kevin Parris of Spartanburg, South Carolina, and named for his mother. ‘Kay Parris’ itself is thought to be the offspring of Magnolia ‘Little Gem’ and Magnolia ‘Bracken Brown Beauty’, though it’s widely considered a finer tree than either one its parents. Expect this more diminutive version to top out at 25 feet tall and 15 feet wide; the perfect size to block out your neighbor’s overactive grill and patio furniture ensemble. The leaves are a deep lustrous green on top and velvety brown on the bottom, and the pure white lemon scented flowers are just yum-yum scrumptious. Southern magnolia is one of the most magnificent native trees in all of North America, and this is our favorite variety for smaller gardens.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; moist, well drained and average soil.
Size: 20′ – 30′ tall and 15′ – 20′ wide
Zone: 6 – 10
Wildlife Value: The dense, evergreen foliage provides shelters for many bird species and both large and small mammals; seeds are eaten by squirrels, possums, mice, and chipmunks
