Sweetbay Magnolia
(Magnolia virginiana)
Other Information
Physical Characteristics
Type: Tree
Height: 10 - 25 ft
Spread: 10 - 25 ft
Flower Color: White / Cream
Flower Time: Late Spring (May - Jun)
Fruit Type: Fruit Cones
Fruit Color: Red
Autumn Color: Semi-Evergreen
Sun Conditions: Full Sun / Part Shade
Shade Tolerance: Medium
Moisture Preference: Medium / High
Deer Resistance*: Medium
Dog Safe**: Yes
Conservation Status (MD): SNR - Unranked
Other Names: Sweetbay
*Deer resistance can vary based on many factors
**Always consult with a veterinarian about plants toxic to dogs and other animals
Wildlife Benefits:
Sweetbay Magnolia flowers produce nectar (and maybe pollen) for a variety of pollinators. The fruits are a food source for song and game birds as well as small mammals. Trees provide winter and extreme weather cover. Several bird species use leaves when constructing nests. It is a larval host for several moths and butterflies including the Maryland endangered Palamedes Swallowtail.
