Bracken's Brown Beauty Southern Magnolia

Edith Bogue Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora 'Edith Bogue')

Edith Bogue Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora 'Edith Bogue') is a hardy, upright evergreen tree known for its large, fragrant white flowers and lustrous green foliage with cinnamon-brown undersides. This selection is one of the most cold-tolerant Southern magnolias available, making it a reliable option for gardeners in northern zones seeking year-round beauty and classic Southern charm. With its stately form and strong presence, it functions as both a focal point and an evergreen screen.

Distinctive Features

'Edith Bogue' features broad, leathery dark green leaves that create a dense, formal appearance. Its creamy white flowers�up to 8 inches across�bloom from late spring into summer and emit a rich, citrusy fragrance. Compared to other Magnolia grandiflora cultivars, 'Edith Bogue' grows in a more upright, narrow form, typically reaching 35 to 40 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide. It is notably tolerant of cold, wind, and urban conditions once established.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Prefers rich, moist, well-drained, acidic soil
• Water: Moderate; requires consistent moisture while establishing
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6�10

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Showy blooms and upright form provide strong visual impact
• Evergreen Privacy Screen: Tall, dense growth habit offers year-round coverage
• Specimen Tree: Elegant structure suits front lawns or large garden beds
• Southern-Inspired Designs: Classic magnolia style for traditional landscapes
• Urban Landscaping: Tolerates city conditions with proper care

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly during the first few years
• Pruning: Prune sparingly to maintain shape and remove damaged branches
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Helps retain soil moisture and regulate root temperature
• Cold Resistance: Withstands colder temperatures than many Southern magnolias

Why Choose Edith Bogue Southern Magnolia?

• Cold Hardy: One of the best options for Northern gardeners seeking a Southern magnolia
• Fragrant Blooms: Large, white flowers perfume the air in late spring
• Evergreen Appeal: Glossy green leaves offer four-season interest
• Upright Growth Habit: Fits well into narrower spaces or vertical designs
• Focal Point: Adds timeless elegance and structure to landscapes

Magnolia grandiflora 'Edith Bogue' brings lasting beauty and resilience to gardens from the South to the Mid-Atlantic and beyond. Its upright form, cold hardiness, and year-round foliage make it a sophisticated choice for both classic and contemporary designs.