This shrub to small tree has upright branches that form a conical habit and it may be evergreen in warmer climates. It has glossy bright green elliptical  leaves and the creamy white cup-shaped fragrant flowers appear from early summer to early autumn, followed by red fruit.

Hardiness zones 5 to 10 

Magnolia virginiana is naturally found in eastern North America growing in fertile moist but well drained soils that are tending towards alkaline. It prefers a wind protected sunny position and is frost tolerant but drought tender.  

Sweet Bay is a small tree that is grown for its fragrant flowers and is planted in parks and gardens as a lawn specimen or in group plantings along borders. It establishes in 3 to 5 years and tolerates a wide range of climatic zones, inland and on the coast. It is moderately deer resistant. ID 1645

Magnolia (mag-NO-lee-uh) virginiana (vir-jin-ee-AH-ah)

Magnoliaceae (mag-NOL-ee-AY-see-ee)