Kim BrattainFounder/ CEO, Kim Brattain Media · Award-winning Corporate and Documentary Film Producer

How to Identify the Southern Magnolia Tree | Charlotte Tree ID

20 Jul 2026 · 1 min

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0:58

In this brief narrated guide, Skylar introduces the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) as a prominent evergreen tree in Charlotte’s urban canopy. The speaker highlights key identification traits: a towering height of 60–80 feet, dark‑green stiff leaves, and large, fragrant white summer flowers. An ecological note mentions that the species predates bees and was originally pollinated by beetles. The video’s purpose is to help viewers recognize and appreciate the Southern Magnolia within the City of Trees.

Chapters

Hi, I'm Skylar, and that's the southern magnolia, one of my favorite trees in the amazing canopy of trees here in Charlotte. I like the magnolia tree because it stays green all winter. It's an evergreen. Magnolia trees get tall. I'm talking 60 to 80 feet. This one, well, It's a lot taller than me, and that's for sure. The leaves are dark green and stiff. Now in the summer, the magnolia tree has these giant white flowers that smell wonderful. Magnolia trees were around before bees evolved and were pollinated by beetles. Enjoy the southern magnolia tree in Charlotte, the City of Trees.