Moonglow Sweetbay Magnolia

Moonglow Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana 'Jim Wilson')

Moonglow Sweetbay Magnolia (Magnolia virginiana 'Jim Wilson') is a standout evergreen cultivar known for its cold hardiness, glossy foliage, and profuse lemon-scented blooms. A selection of the native Sweetbay Magnolia, 'Moonglow' was chosen for its ability to retain leaves even in colder zones, making it one of the best choices for gardeners seeking year-round presence from this elegant species. With its upright growth habit and resilience, Moonglow adds structure, fragrance, and native beauty to a wide range of landscapes.

Distinctive Features

'Moonglow' features deep green, lustrous leaves with silvery undersides that shimmer in the wind. In late spring through summer, the tree produces creamy white, cup-shaped flowers that exude a rich citrus fragrance and attract bees and butterflies. It grows in a strongly upright, multi-stemmed form, typically reaching 20�35 feet tall and 15�20 feet wide at maturity. In Zones 6 and above, it holds most of its foliage through winter, offering excellent evergreen performance in cooler climates compared to typical Sweetbay selections.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained soil; tolerates clay and wet sites
• Water: Moderate to high; thrives with consistent moisture
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Bold vertical form and white blooms draw attention in any landscape
• Privacy Screen: Dense evergreen habit offers year-round screening
• Native Landscapes: A robust native that supports pollinators and adapts to wet areas
• Foundation Planting: Frames buildings with upright, refined structure
• Rain Gardens: Suitable for low areas or near water features

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Maintain steady soil moisture, especially during establishment
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; shape in late winter if necessary
• Fertilizing: Feed with a balanced, acidic fertilizer in spring
• Mulching: Apply mulch annually to conserve moisture and suppress weeds
• Cold Hardy Evergreen: Holds leaves better than most Sweetbay cultivars in northern zones

Why Choose Moonglow Sweetbay Magnolia?

• Evergreen in Cold Climates: Maintains foliage further north than typical Sweetbay varieties
• Fragrant Flowers: Long bloom season with rich citrus-scented blossoms
• Resilient Native Tree: Thrives in moist soils and supports pollinators
• Elegant Form: Upright habit suits formal and naturalistic designs
• Focal Point: A durable, showy option for year-round landscape interest

Magnolia virginiana 'Jim Wilson' (Moonglow) brings together hardiness, fragrance, and beauty in one dependable native tree. Whether used as a screen, specimen, or anchor in a mixed planting, its evergreen presence and summer bloom make it a standout focal point across the seasons.