Magnolia Moonglow
Best low-maintenance native tree for gardeners with moist or clay soil.
Discover the Magnolia Moonglow®, a stunning cultivar of the Sweet Bay Magnolia. This medium-sized tree boasts an elegant, vase-shaped form and is typically evergreen, showcasing glossy dark green leaves with captivating silvery undersides that shimmer in the breeze. From mid-spring to early summer, it graces your garden with fragrant, lemony-scented ivory blossoms. Following the blooms, ornamental fruits appear in fall, offering a food source for migrating birds. This native tree is a low-maintenance, adaptable choice for various garden settings, thriving in moist soils and attracting pollinators.
$38.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
508
/ 1245
#508 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
-64%
Below average
Mature Height
35
/ feet
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking a luminous focal point for evening relaxation
- Landscapers desiring a structured, low-maintenance specimen tree
- Homeowners investing in long-term property curb appeal
Who should skip it
- Impatient gardeners wanting immediate, abundant floral displays
- Busy homeowners avoiding frequent yard cleanup near walkways
- Gardeners with poor soil or limited shade options
Performance breakdown
Fragrance Impact
Lemony-scented ivory blossoms provide a sophisticated sensory experience for any garden.
Soil Adaptability
Thrives in challenging clay and wet conditions where other trees struggle.
Wildlife Support
Provides essential food and shelter for migrating birds and local pollinators.
Maintenance Ease
A vigorous grower that requires minimal intervention once established in the landscape.
Visual Interest
Silvery leaf undersides create a dynamic, shimmering effect in the breeze.
Hardiness Range
Impressive climate versatility spanning across a wide range of USDA zones.
Key Specs
Mature Height
35 feet
Mature Width
20 feet
Foliage Type
Evergreen
USDA Hardiness Zones
4 - 9
Light Requirements
Full Sun, Part Shade
Growth Rate
Fast
Bloom Season
Spring, Summer
Fruit or Nut Bearing
True
Features
- Fragrant, lemony-scented ivory blossoms
- Glossy foliage with silvery undersides
- Upright habit with a twisted trunk
- Attracts butterflies and birds
- Tolerates wet and clay soils
- Low maintenance and easy to grow
- Native to the Southeastern US
- Vigorous growth rate
What customers say
Consumers are overwhelmingly impressed by the initial quality of the Magnolia Moonglow, frequently highlighting the robust health and careful shipping of the specimens. The standout feature is the unique design: the rare, creamy yellow blooms deliver a sophisticated aesthetic that elevates the garden. While acknowledging the premium price, buyers feel the tree's vigorous growth and reliable performance justify the investment, confirming its status as a highly valued landscape addition.
Know before you buy
This tree reaches a mature height of approximately 35 feet with a spread of 20 feet. Given its vigorous growth rate, ensure you provide enough space for its upright, vase-shaped form to develop fully.
The Magnolia Moonglow is hardy in USDA zones 4 through 9. This wide range makes it adaptable to many different climates, though you should verify your specific zone before planting.
Yes, this cultivar is an excellent choice for wetter areas. It is specifically noted for its ability to tolerate clay soils and high moisture levels, making it a reliable option for spots where other trees might struggle.
It is considered a low-maintenance tree. Its natural upright habit and twisted trunk require minimal intervention, allowing it to maintain its elegant shape with little effort from the gardener.
The tree is a magnet for pollinators like butterflies, which are drawn to the fragrant ivory blossoms. In the fall, the ornamental fruits provide a valuable food source for migrating birds.
Yes, it is classified as an evergreen. You can expect to enjoy its glossy, dark green leaves year-round, which feature a distinct silvery underside that creates a shimmering effect when the wind blows.
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$39