Southern Magnolia

The Grand Southern Classic

The Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is one of the most iconic trees in the American South, with massive glossy evergreen leaves and huge fragrant white flowers. A stately choice for large properties, it provides year-round beauty. Alfaro Tree Sales grows Southern Magnolias at our 40-acre Atascosa nursery.

1–2 ft/yr
Growth Rate
40–60 ft
Mature Height
Moderate
Drought Tolerance
Since ’76
Growing & Planting
Sun
Full Sun to Part Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth
1–2 ft/yr
Mature Height
40–60 ft
Foliage
Evergreen
Fragrant White Flowers
Fragrant Blooms

Fragrant White Flowers

Southern Magnolias produce enormous (8–12 inch) fragrant white flowers from late spring through summer. The scent is intoxicating and the blooms are stunning against the glossy dark foliage.

Iconic fragrant white flowers Glossy evergreen foliage Dense privacy screening Field-grown at our 40-acre nursery

Southern Magnolia vs. Yaupon Holly

Two popular privacy options for San Antonio compared.

Recommended

Southern Magnolia

Growth Rate1–2 ft/yr
DroughtModerate
FoliageEvergreen
Mature Height40–60 ft
WaterModerate
Best ForShade, Screening, Specimen

Yaupon Holly

Growth Rate1–2 ft/yr
DroughtGood
FoliageEvergreen
Mature Height40–50 ft
WaterModerate
Best ForShade

Growth Timeline

Expected growth after planting.

12 ft
Planting
22 ft
Year 5
35 ft
Year 10
Good shade
55 ft
Year 20+
Mature

Care After Planting

Watering

Deep water regularly during the first growing season. Moderate water needs once established; supplement during extended drought.

Soil & Fertilizer

Adapts to most soils. Light balanced fertilizer in spring after year 1.

Pruning

Prune to maintain shape and remove dead or crossing branches. Best done in late winter (January–February).

Best Planting Time

October through March is ideal for establishment before summer heat.

Our Planting Process

1

Select & Deliver

Choose your tree at our nursery or by phone. We deliver it to your property.

2

Plant & Mulch

Machine-dug hole, native soil backfill, deep watering, and mulch ring installed.

3

Follow-Up

Written care instructions plus a 30-day establishment check from our crew.

Sun
Full Sun to Part Shade
Water
Moderate
Growth Rate
1–2 ft/yr
Mature Height
40–60 ft
Canopy Spread
25–40 ft
Foliage
Evergreen
Foliage
Evergreen
Native Range
SE United States
Soil
Acidic to Neutral
Best For
Shade, Screening, Specimen
Category
Privacy
Nursery
40 Acres, Atascosa TX

Southern Magnolias grow 1–2 ft/yr in San Antonio under good conditions.

Moderately. They benefit from occasional deep watering during extended dry periods.

Mature size is typically 40–60 ft tall with a 25–40 ft spread.

They thrive in acidic to neutral soils, which matches most San Antonio properties.

October through March is ideal. Our team plants year-round with proper watering protocols.

We offer Southern Magnolias in various sizes. Field-grown at our nursery in Atascosa. Call (210) 202-4284.

Yes. Professional delivery and planting across the San Antonio metro. Request a free quote.

Southern Magnolias are excellent for shade, screening, specimen in the San Antonio area.