Bear Necessities: Why You’ll Love The ‘Teddy Bear’ Magnolia

 

The ‘Teddy Bear’ Magnolia is a compact evergreen tree that is known for its dense, glossy green foliage and large, creamy white flowers. It is a cultivar of the Southern Magnolia, which is native to the southeastern United States. What sets the Teddy Bear Magnolia apart is its smaller, more manageable size, making it an ideal choice for gardens and yards of all sizes.
 

 

Unique Characteristics:

 

• Compact Size: It’s defining feature is its compact growth. Unlike its larger relatives, which can tower up to 80 feet, the Teddy Bear variety grows 15-20 feet tall and 10-12 feet wide.
 

• Dense Foliage: Teddy Bear Magnolia leaves are a deep, glossy green on the top with a contrasting, fuzzy brown underside. This gives the tree a lush, full appearance year-round. The leaves are also smaller and more rounded compared to other Magnolia varieties, contributing to its “teddy bear” namesake.
 

• Exquisite Flowers: Their large, fragrant blossoms are typically 6-8 inches in diameter and have a rich, creamy white color. Blooming from late spring to early summer., these flowers are pollinator friendly.
 

• Low Maintenance: It is relatively low maintenance requiring only occasional pruning to maintain its shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. It prefers full sun to partial shade.
 

 

Landscaping with Teddy Bear Magnolias

 

The Teddy Bear Magnolia is a versatile addition to any landscape. Its compact size makes it suitable for planting as a focal point in small gardens, near patios, or along walkways. It can also be used in larger landscapes as a foundation plant or in groupings to create a natural screen or hedge.
 

Because of its year-round greenery and striking blossoms, the Teddy Bear Magnolia adds visual interest in all seasons. In the winter, its dense foliage provides a backdrop of green, while in the spring and summer, its showy flowers take center stage.