Bigleaf Magnolia
Magnolia macrophylla
Bigleaf magnolia has the largest leaves of any native tree in North America. some reaching three feet long and over a foot wide. Walking under a mature specimen feels like walking under a tropical canopy. The leaves are extraordinary: bold, architectural, and casting deep shade. In late spring, cream-white flowers up to 18 inches across with purple centers open at the branch tips. possibly the largest flowers of any native North American tree. This is a statement tree for gardeners who want something genuinely dramatic and ecologically grounded at the same time. The scale is tropical but the plant is native Virginia woodland. Give it a protected spot. large leaves are vulnerable to wind damage. and room to develop the impressive layered canopy it builds over time.
We grow a range of sizes and prices. Add the plant to your list, then pick your size when you visit.
Final price confirmed at pickup, depends on size and season.
- Thu, Jul 238 AM – 4 PM
- Fri, Jul 248 AM – 4 PM
- Sat, Jul 258 AM – 2 PM
A nursery-grown plant, ready for the ground.
Healthy, container-grown bigleaf magnolia propagated on-site at Hill House from regional genetics. Includes a one-page care card. We make every effort to supply plants as listed; occasionally we substitute a similar species of equal value.
- Sun
- Part sun
- Water
- Average
- Mature size
- 30'–40'
- Bloom
- Enormous leaves creating tropical canopy effect through summer, massive white blooms in late spring, decorative red seed cones in fall.
- USDA zones
- 5-8
Pairs well with these.
Same light, same soil, same wildlife. Janet's picks to plant alongside bigleaf magnolia.
Or skip the guesswork.
Curated packages bundle 9–12 species that work together. One reservation, one pickup day, a printed layout map.
Butterfly Package
Host and nectar plants chosen to feed monarchs, swallowtails, and fritillaries spring through fall.
Hummingbird Package
Tubular-flowered natives that pull ruby-throats through your yard April through October.
S.O.S. Package
Save Our Songbirds, berry- and seed-bearing natives that feed nesting and migrating birds.