Quick answer: Sweetbay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana) is native to 12 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seed, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Where it's native
Listed in the register as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | High water, Moist |
| Soil | Rich, moist soils - sandy, sandy loam, medium loam, clay loam, clay, acid-based |
| Bloom | Bloom Apr-Jul |
| Height | 12-20 ft, up to 90 ft in south |
| Wildlife value | Very low direct wildlife value, nectar for moths and beetles, attracts birds, larval host for sweetbay silkmoth |
Buying it
Wild species
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seed via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
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