Magnolias are one of the most beloved flowers in the South. Their huge fragrant blooms are a sure sign that spring has arrived. Georgia is home to several native magnolia species that put on a spectacular floral display from late winter through early spring. Here’s everything you need to know about when and where to see magnolias blooming in Georgia.
Native Magnolia Species in Georgia
There are three magnolia species native to Georgia:
- Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora)
- Bigleaf Magnolia (Magnolia macrophylla)
- Umbrella Magnolia (Magnolia tripetala)
Southern magnolias are the most widely distributed and recognizable These stately trees can grow over 80 feet tall and their glossy green leaves and large white blooms are iconic symbols of the South
Bigleaf magnolias are uncommon understory trees with the largest simple leaf of any North American plant, measuring up to 3 feet long! Their huge leaves and large white flowers make a dramatic statement in the forest.
Umbrella magnolias are small understory trees with unique umbrella-shaped leaves. Their creamy white blooms appear above the foliage in early spring.
Magnolia Blooming Season in Georgia
Magnolias begin blooming in the southern parts of Georgia in late winter and continue into early spring, spreading northward across the state as temperatures warm.
-
In coastal and south Georgia, expect magnolias from late January through March.
-
In central Georgia including Atlanta, peak magnolia bloom is during March.
-
In north Georgia and higher elevations, magnolias bloom April into early May.
Bloom times vary slightly each year depending on weather conditions. Unseasonably warm late winters and springs will accelerate the magnolia bloom, while colder temperatures will delay it.
Magnolias bloom progressively over a period of 4-6 weeks. Trees at lower elevations and in urban microclimates with more warmth bloom earlier. Umbrella magnolias bloom first, followed by bigleaf and finally southern magnolias.
Where to See Magnolias Blooming in Georgia
Some of the best places in Georgia to enjoy magnolias in bloom include:
-
Atlanta Botanical Garden – Stroll beneath groves of stately southern magnolias blooming in March and April.
-
Augusta Canal – Canal towpaths are lined with towering southern magnolias blooming March into April.
-
Savannah Historic District – Magnolias bloom throughout downtown Savannah’s urban forest from late February through April.
-
Callaway Gardens – See acres of ornamental magnolias blooming February through April at this idyllic resort.
-
Gibbs Gardens – Bigleaf and umbrella magnolias bloom spectacularly in April along woodland streams and trails.
-
Providence Canyon State Park – Hike canyon rim trails under the canopy of blooming bigleaf magnolias in April.
-
Okefenokee Swamp – Take a boat ride through lush swamplands dotted with blooming southern magnolias in March.
-
Amicalola Falls State Park – Watch for umbrella magnolias in bloom near waterfalls in April and May.
Tips for Magnolia Viewing
-
Time your visit for peak bloom at lower elevations during March and April.
-
Look for magnolias in sheltered microclimates protected from frost.
-
Morning hours provide the best light for photography before magnolia blooms wilt in the heat.
-
Linger beneath magnolia trees to enjoy their lemon-citrus fragrance.
-
Pack rain gear and waterproof shoes since Georgia springs are often wet.
-
Bring binoculars to spot magnolia blooms high up in the canopy.
-
Stop and smell the flowers – rub a magnolia petal between your fingers to release more scent!
The Allure of Magnolias in Bloom
Magnolias have an exotic, tropical quality with their huge waxy blooms and oversized leaves. Seeing magnolias in full bloom is a magical spring experience for Georgians and visitors alike.
The majestic beauty of flowering magnolias signals warmer days ahead after winter. Locals celebrate their return as a hallmark of spring in Georgia.
Magnolias are deeply rooted in Southern culture and an iconic part of the Georgia landscape. Viewing their seasonal floral display is a spring tradition to cherish.
Avoid These 5 Five Mistakes When Growing and Planting Magnolias
Are magnolia trees native to Georgia?
Southern magnolia, Magnolia grandiflora, is an aristocratic tree. It grows well throughout Georgia, is widely adaptable to a variety of soils and has few pest problems. With glossy evergreen foliage and large white fragrant blossoms, it truly is one of the most handsome and durable native trees for our Southern landscapes.
What is the tallest magnolia tree in Georgia?
Southern Magnolia Southern Magnolia, often known as Evergreen Magnolia is one of the tallest magnolia trees in Georgia. It has the potential of reaching a height of 60 to 80 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 to 3 feet. The diameter can sometimes reach 5 feet. The tree has a pyramidal structure with evergreen foliage.
How long does it take a magnolia tree to bloom?
Magnolia trees can take several years to bloom, especially if it was an unnamed, generic variety when purchased. They bloom in ivory whites, pale yellows, and pretty pinks, with some species flowering in the heat of summer and others blooming in late winter as harbingers of warmer weather to come.
How long does a magnolia tree take to grow?
Most cultivars of Southern magnolia are seedling selections that have been vegetatively propagated, which results in a wide variety of tree shapes, leaf sizes and leaf coloration. Some nurseries also sell seedling trees; however, seedling trees may take 10 years or more to flower.
