Magnolia Tree (3 Gal)

3-Gallon Southern Magnolia Tree

Bring classic Southern beauty to your landscape with the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). Known for its glossy evergreen foliage and spectacular, fragrant white flowers, this iconic tree makes a beautiful specimen, shade tree, or statement planting for larger landscapes.

A 3-gallon magnolia is a young tree that will continue developing substantially after planting. Because mature size varies quite a bit by cultivar, check the plant tag for the specific variety. Standard Southern Magnolias can eventually become very large, while compact varieties such as ‘Little Gem’ stay considerably smaller. 

Plant at a Glance

• Botanical Name: Magnolia grandiflora
• Plant Type: Evergreen flowering tree
• Container Size: 3 Gallon
• Sunlight: Full sun to partial shade; flowering and growth are generally best with plenty of sun. 
• Mature Height: Approximately 60–80 ft. for a traditional Southern Magnolia
• Mature Width: Approximately 30–40+ ft.
• Growth Habit: Upright, broad and stately
• Foliage: Large, glossy, deep-green evergreen leaves
• Bloom Color: Creamy white
• Bloom Time: Typically late spring into summer, with some flowers appearing intermittently afterward
• Fragrance: Yes — beautifully fragrant
• USDA Zones: Generally Zones 6–10, depending on cultivar. 
• Zone 9a: Excellent choice and well suited to our warm Southern climate.

When to Plant

In Zone 9a, magnolias can be planted through much of the year, but fall through early spring is ideal. Planting during cooler weather allows the root system to establish before intense summer heat arrives.

If planting during summer, consistent watering is especially important during the establishment period.

How to Plant

Choose a location with enough room for the tree’s mature canopy and root system.

Dig a hole approximately twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper than the root ball itself. Position the tree so the top of the root ball sits level with or slightly above the surrounding soil. Avoid planting magnolias too deeply. 

Backfill with the existing soil, water thoroughly, and apply approximately 2–3 inches of mulch around the planting area while keeping mulch away from the trunk.

Watering

Water deeply and consistently while your magnolia becomes established.

For newly planted trees:

• Check moisture several times each week during hot weather.
• Water deeply rather than giving frequent shallow watering.
• Reduce watering as the root system becomes established.

Established Southern Magnolias are considerably more tolerant of short dry periods, although supplemental water during prolonged drought will keep them looking their best.

Fertilizing

Magnolias generally do not require heavy fertilization. Healthy soil and proper watering are more important than frequent feeding. 

If growth appears weak, a slow-release fertilizer formulated for trees and shrubs may be applied according to label directions during the active growing season.

Pruning & Maintenance

Southern Magnolias are naturally beautiful trees and usually require very little pruning.

Prune primarily to:

• Remove dead or damaged branches
• Correct crossing branches
• Develop the desired tree form while the plant is young

Avoid unnecessary heavy pruning once the tree develops its mature structure.

Beautiful Plant Pairings

Create a classic Southern landscape by pairing magnolias with:

Camellias • Gardenias • Encore Azaleas • Drift Roses • Hydrangeas • Distylium • Liriope • Carex

For a Wright’s Market-style landscape, we especially love a magnolia surrounded by layers of evergreen foliage with white flowering shrubs and soft ornamental grasses.

Magnolia Meaning & Symbolism

Magnolias have long symbolized beauty, dignity, perseverance and strength. Their association with Southern homes and gardens also makes them a wonderful tree for creating a landscape that feels established, welcoming and timeless.

Why Wright’s Market Loves It

Few trees say Southern garden quite like a magnolia. The combination of glossy evergreen foliage, enormous fragrant white flowers and a stately form gives landscapes year-round character.

It’s the type of tree that gets more beautiful as the years go by—and one that can become a memorable part of a home and family landscape for generations.

Wright’s Market Garden Tip: Give your magnolia plenty of room from the beginning. Magnolias develop shallow, spreading roots and are happiest when they can mature without being crowded by foundations, sidewalks or competing trees. 

Available at Wright’s Market • Rincon, Georgia
Plant availability and appearance may vary seasonally.