Cup-shaped, lemon-scented, white, waxy flowers with 9-12 petals. 2-3" wide.
Foliage Characteristics:
Oblong-lanceolate, shiny leaves with silvery undersides. Evergreen to semi-evergreen in south, but frequently deciduous in norther range.
Fruit Characteristics:
Cone-like fruits mature in fall and split open to reveal bright red seeds inside.
Structure:
Rounded
Range:
E USA to Texas, Cuba
Habitat:
Wet acid soils of coastal swamps and low lands of Coastal Plains; 0-61 meters
Description:
Sweetbay magnolia, while not related to any of the plants that culinary bay leaves come from, was used by Native American tribes in the southeast as a spice. This tree has lovely, white flowers with a sweet fragrance.
Hardiness:
-20 -40 F
Attracts:
Birds with seed and shelter, and butterflies as a host.