Laurel Magnolia, Sweetbay

Magnolia virginiana

Physical Characteristics

Magnolia virginiana is a deciduous Tree growing to 10 m (32ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Beetles. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil. It can tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - Massachusetts to Florida, west to Missouri and Tennessee.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy; Secondary;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Condiment Tea The leaves are used as a condiment in gravies etc[183]. A tea is made from the leaves[183].

Medicinal Uses

Aromatic Astringent Bitter Diaphoretic Febrifuge Hallucinogenic Malaria Stimulant A tea made from the bark is antiperiodic, aromatic, diaphoretic, laxative, stimulant and tonic[4, 222]. It has historically been used as a substitute for quinine in the treatment of malaria[222, 238] and is also taken internally in the treatment of colds, bronchial diseases, upper respiratory tract infections, rheumatism and gout[238, 257]. The bark has been chewed by people trying to break the tobacco habit[222]. The bark is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238]. It does not store well so stocks should be renewed annually[238]. A tea made from the fruit is a tonic, used in the treatment of general debility and was formerly esteemed in the treatment of stomach ailments[222]. The leaves or bark have been placed in cupped hands over the nose and inhaled as a mild hallucinogen[257].

Known Hazards

None known