Jim Wilson or Moonglow Sweetbay Magnolia will grow to be about 35 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 18 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3 feet from the ground, and should not be planted underneath power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 60 years or more.
This tree performs well in both full sun and full shade. It prefers to grow in moist to wet soil, and will even tolerate some standing water. It is not particular as to soil type, but has a definite preference for acidic soils, and is subject to chlorosis (yellowing) of the foliage in alkaline soils. It is quite intolerant of urban pollution, therefore inner city or urban streetside plantings are best avoided, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selection of a native North American species.
Details
Botanical Name
Magnolia virginiana 'Moonglow'
Common Name
Jim Wilson or Moonglow Sweetbay Magnolia
Hardiness Zone
- 5a
Appearance
Max Height
35 feet
Max Spread
18 feet
Plant Form
Foliage Colour
- Dark Green
Fall Colour
- Yellow
Flower Colour
- Creamy White
Edible
Edible Component
Edible Harvest Period
Edible Use
Fruit Colour
Growing
Flowering Period
Mid Spring to Early Summer
Moisture
Moist to Wet
Sunlight
Full Sun to Partial Shade
Maintenance
Low
Deer Resistance
YES
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