Today, we got our first magnolia bloom of the season in our Greensboro yard. Our tree is a southern magnolia (magnolia grandiflora). It is a mature tree, over 2 1/2 stories high and at least 50 years old. They can live from 80- 120 years, so hopefully, it will be around for a while.
The Southern Magnolia is native to North Carolina, and it is known for its large, fragrant white flowers and glossy leaves. The magnolia is an ancient genus. Magnolias have been around prior to the evolution of bees, so they are actually pollinated by beetles. If you have a large magnolia tree, you may notice more beetles in your yard, on your porch and even in your house. We're going to head around town this week and see where else the magnolias are blooming.