Magnolia grandiflora 'Edith Bogue'

Magnolia grandiflora 'Edith Bogue': Cold-Hardy Evergreen Magnolia with Fragrant White Blooms

Magnolia grandiflora 'Edith Bogue' is a treasured Southern magnolia selection known for its excellent cold tolerance and dependable evergreen presence. In early summer, large creamy-white flowers open with a rich, lemony fragrance that carries beautifully on warm air. Thick, glossy green leaves create a bold, polished look year-round, giving the plant strong structure even when it’s not in bloom. With its upright, pyramidal habit, it brings a refined, classic elegance to landscapes that want evergreen character and unforgettable flowers.

Plant Characteristics:

• Height: 20–30’
• Spread: 10–15’
• Flower Colour: Creamy-white
• Flowering Period: Early summer
• Foliage: Evergreen, thick glossy green leaves
• Sunlight Requirements: Full Sun to Part Shade
• Soil Requirements: Moist, well-drained soil enriched with organic matter

Uses and Benefits: An excellent specimen tree for entrances, patios, and high-visibility planting areas where fragrance and evergreen structure matter. Its upright form also makes it useful for screening and adding year-round backbone to mixed borders. The large leaves and clean habit pair well with stone, evergreens, and fine-textured grasses, creating strong contrast and a finished, designer-friendly look.

Care Instructions: Water regularly during establishment, then provide deep watering during dry spells to keep growth steady and foliage lush. Mulch helps conserve moisture and protects the root zone from temperature swings. Prune lightly only as needed to refine shape, ideally after flowering, and avoid heavy pruning which can reduce bloom. A sheltered location out of harsh winter wind helps keep evergreen foliage looking its best.

History: 'Edith Bogue' became widely valued as a more cold-tolerant selection of Magnolia grandiflora, helping extend the use of Southern magnolia into cooler regions. It is admired for combining classic fragrant blooms and evergreen foliage with improved hardiness and reliable landscape performance.

Final Thoughts: For gardeners who want evergreen magnolia beauty with a stronger cold-weather edge, Edith Bogue delivers glossy structure, fragrant summer bloom, and a truly timeless presence in the landscape.