Magnolia trees are known for their large, glossy leaves and fragrant blooms that signal the arrival of spring and summer. But did you know that magnolia leaves can also be used to decorate your home? With their unique shape and texture magnolia leaves make beautiful and natural decor elements for both indoor and outdoor spaces.

In this article, we’ll share 9 creative ways to use magnolia leaves to add a touch of nature to your home decor.

Gather Magnolia Leaves and Stems

The first step is to gather magnolia leaves and stems. The best time to do this is in late summer or early fall when the leaves are mature. Look for leaves that are vibrant green in color and free of blemishes. You can gather leaves from your own magnolia tree or ask neighbors or friends if you can collect leaves from their trees. Always get permission before removing leaves from someone else’s tree.

When gathering leaves, use clean and sharp pruners to cut branches. Try to select branches that have full leaves and avoid ones with just a few leaves. The stems will allow you to place the leaves in water to preserve them.

Preserve Magnolia Leaves

To extend the lifespan of magnolia leaves, preserve them by placing the cut stems in a vase or bucket filled with water. Add floral preservative to the water and store the magnolia branches in a cool spot out of direct sunlight. Change the water every 2-3 days. This will help the leaves stay fresh and vibrant for weeks.

You can also press magnolia leaves between sheets of wax paper and store in large books. The leaves will dry flat and can be used for craft projects

Make Magnolia Leaf Wreaths

One of the most popular ways to use magnolia leaves is in wreaths. The large green leaves create a full, lush wreath perfect for front doors.

To make a magnolia leaf wreath:

• Gather leaves on pliable stems and cut them to 6-8 inches in length.
• Form the stems into a ring shape and secure them together with floral wire.
• Start adding leaves around the ring, wiring each one in place. Layer the leaves in a spiral pattern, completely covering the ring.
• Finish with a pretty bow or other embellishments.

Hang your magnolia wreath indoors or outdoors for an elegant display.

Craft Magnolia Leaf Garlands

For a bohemian vibe, you can create gorgeous magnolia leaf garlands. These can be draped on fireplace mantels, stair railings, above doorways, or even used as table runners.

Making a garland is easy:

• Cut stems with leaves into sections around 12-24 inches long.
• Take 2-3 stems and wire or tie them together at one end. Then add another small bundle and tie to the first one.
• Continue tying bundles of stems along the length to form a garland as long as you desire.
• Shape the garland and use floral wire to attach to corners or focal points for hanging.

Style Magnolia Leaf Centerpieces

The unique shape of magnolia leaves lends well to stunning floral displays. Use magnolia leaves as the base or filler for your favorite blooms. The leaves add texture and make any flowers pop.

Some ideas include:

• Placing magnolia leaves and branches in a tall vase or urn. Intersperse the foliage with garden roses, dahlias, or hydrangeas.

• Using magnolia leaves in place of floral foam. Cut the stems short and insert flowers directly into leaves.

• Mixing magnolia leaves into greenery for table garlands, wreaths, or mantel swags. The dark green color provides contrast.

Craft Magnolia Topiaries

Here’s a simple nature craft that adds charm to shelves, side tables, or mantels – magnolia leaf topiaries!

Follow these steps:

• Gather small magnolia branches with leaves attached. Cut stems about 4-6 inches long.

• Use floral foam or chicken wire to form the base shape for your topiary. Soak foam in water first to prevent leaves from drying out.

• Insert magnolia stems into the base, clustering leaves together. Prune stems as needed to create the topiary shape.

• Display on bookshelves, console tables, mantels, or on tabletops. Mist with water occasionally to help leaves last.

Press and Frame Magnolia Leaves

For unique wall art, press your favorite magnolia leaves and frame them. This lets you appreciate the leaf shapes and designs up close.

• Place leaves between sheets of wax paper, arranging them how you like.

• Cover with books and allow leaves to dry flat for 1-2 weeks.

• Cut strips of burlap or use colored mats to frame pressed leaves. Or glue leaves to plain frames for a modern look.

Make Magnolia Leaf Coasters

Magnolia leaves pressed flat create wonderful natural coasters. Their leathery texture protects furniture from water rings or scratches.

• Select 4-6 magnolia leaves and press dry as mentioned above.

• Cut cork board, felt, or leather into coaster-sized squares.

• Attach a pressed leaf to each coaster base using decoupage or craft glue.

• Seal with polyurethane if desired to add shine and protection.

Give these as gifts or use to protect your own tables.

Create Magnolia Leaf Plates

For a showstopping presentation at your next dinner party, use giant magnolia leaves as plates. Real leaves add organic beauty to any meal.

• Look for the largest magnolia leaves possible when gathering. Measure dinner plates to find ideal leaf size.

• Wash and pat leaves dry with paper towels before using.

• Arrange food directly on the magnolia leaf “plates” and serve.

Dry and Display Magnolia Pods

Don’t discard the seed pods from your magnolia trees. These make fascinating decorative objects.

Allow pods to dry completely on the stems after blooming ends. Then cut them and either keep au natural or spray paint them metallic gold, silver, or white. Hang in small clusters or fill bowls and vases with the exotic dried pods.

Decorating with Magnolia Leaves Year-Round

With their stunning forms and textures, magnolia leaves can be incorporated into home decor any time of year, not just the holiday season. Here are some ideas:

In spring, use the fresh new leaves in floral arrangements with tulips, peonies, and lilacs. Or cloak lamp bases with magnolia leaves for an earthy look.

During summer, make mini magnolia leaf wreaths to adorn beverage jars and pitchers for your next backyard BBQ.

For fall, fill wooden bowls with magnolia leaves, acorns, and other foraged finds for an autumnal centerpiece. Or make name card place settings with pressed leaves.

In winter, mix magnolia foliage into evergreen wreaths and garlands along with pine, holly, and cedar. The bold leaves make a dramatic statement.

Whatever the season, magnolia leaves bring gorgeous natural style to any home. With so many creative possibilities, you’ll enjoy putting those beautiful leaves to decorative use both inside and out.