Magnolia Seeds - Sweetbay

(Magnolia virginiana) Deciduous. Zones 5 - 9 

Sweetbay Magnolia, also known as Swamp Magnolia, is an elegant ornamental tree, compact enough for small gardens and patios. 

Sweetbay Magnolia has dark green, glossy foliage with frosty silver undersides. In Fall, leaves deepen to bronze-purple. It has slender, pale gray bark and grows in an upright, vase shape. 2-3” creamy white Magnolia flowers have a lovely lemon scent. Bright scarlet red seeded fruit attract birds and other wildlife. 

Sweetbay Magnolia is host to the Sweetbay Silkmoth!

Cold Hardiness: Zones 5 - 9

Edible: Yes 

Size: Small tree

Growth Rate: Medium to fast

Nitrogen Fixer: No 

Native Plant: Yes

Germination: 50 - 70%

Sun Requirements: Full sun to part shade

Soil Preference: Acidic, loamy, moist, rich

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GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

- Begin with 60 - 90 days cold, moist stratification. For more information on stratification, check out our article "How To Start Your Tree Seeds".

*If you are doing the cold period in your fridge, please check on your seeds. 90 days is an estimate & they may sprout sooner.*

- Plant stratified seeds in pots or a nursery bed using standard potting soil. Heat mats are NOT required & can hinder germination!

- Protect young tree seedlings from slugs, cutworms & rodents. Slugs especially can eat primary leaves as soon as they come up, so be vigilant!