In the Garden with Pat Rubin

Bee garden writer Pat Rubin writes about everything that grows, from flowers and trees to vegetables and lawns. Pat volunteered for several years as a Placer County Master Gardener and has written about gardening for many national and regional publications. In addition to gardening, she spends time raising and showing miniature horses and miniature donkeys.

In the Garden will include news, events, advice and other gardening tidbits. Pat will also answer reader questions.

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October 11, 2007

The southern magnolia in the fall

I’ve always admired the southern magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). The large, leathery leaves look handsome all year. If you turn them over, you’ll see the backside is a golden-tan color, and felty to the touch. And who doesn’t love its huge, fragrant, pristine white flowers that seem to float on the edges of the stems.

But I think what I love best about the plant is its fall seedpods and the red berries than dangle from them. Each autumn I cut a seedpod or two and bring to work to put on my desk. It's a colorful, pleasant and cheerful reminder of gardening, of autumn colors, and of being outside on a cool, crisp day.

The Sunset Western Garden Book cautions gardeners to be aware of a few not-so-endearing qualities about the southern magnolia. It can reach 80 feet tall and spread its limbs 60 feet. It can also take as long as 15 years to bloom. Planted in the wrong place, its roots can lift sidewalks. It does drop leaves, and they can be messy and difficult to clean up. Sunset recommends M. delavayi and M. virginiana for evergreen alternatives to M. grandiflora.

But I think you’ll admit that finding the right place for a plant is the key to success with anything in the garden. The southern magnolia is no exception. So think long and hard, and if you have the right spot for the southern magnolia, consider planting one of these magnificient trees.

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