How to Grow Sweet Bay Magnolia Tree - Plant Care & Tips

By NorwichGardener Team   /   2025

Sweet bay magnolia tree is one of the most popular and oldest trees in the southern United States. The sweet bay magnolia tree is a beautiful, flowering tree that can grow up to 30 feet tall. The sweet bay magnolia tree has large, white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. The sweet bay magnolia tree is a popular tree for landscaping and gardens because it is easy to care for and is very drought tolerant.

How to Grow Sweet Bay Magnolia Tree - Plant Care & Tips

Also known as

  • Gumbo-limbo tree
  • Rice paper plant
  • Wax plant
  • Bay laurel
  • Sweet gum

Basic info

  • The sweet bay magnolia tree is a flowering tree that is native to North America.
  • The tree can grow to be up to 40 feet tall and has large, white flowers that bloom in the spring.
  • The sweet bay magnolia tree is often used as an ornamental tree in gardens and landscaping.
  • The tree is also used in the production of essential oils and is sometimes used in aromatherapy.
  • The sweet bay magnolia tree is known to be an excellent source of nectar for bees and other pollinators.
  • The tree is also known to be deer resistant and can be a good choice for landscaping in areas where deer are a problem.
  • The sweet bay magnolia tree does best in full sun and moist, well-drained soils.
  • The tree is relatively easy to care for and is not known to be susceptible to many pests or diseases.
  • The sweet bay magnolia tree can be propagated from seed or cuttings and is often sold as a nursery plant.
  • The sweet bay magnolia tree is a beautiful tree that makes a great addition to any landscape.

Related plant:
Sweet Almond Bush

How to Grow

  1. For sweet bay magnolia tree, first step is to find the perfect location. This tree prefers full sun to partial shade and well-drained soils.
  2. The second step is to dig a hole that is twice the width and depth of the tree’s root ball.
  3. The third step is to place the tree in the hole and backfill with soil. Be sure to pack the soil gently around the roots.
  4. The fourth step is to water the tree deeply.
  5. The fifth step is to apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, but not touching the trunk.
  6. The sixth step is to fertilize the tree twice a year, in spring and fall, with a balanced fertilizer.
  7. The seventh step is to prune the tree as needed to maintain its shape.
  8. The eighth step is to water the tree during periods of drought.
  9. The ninth step is to monitor the tree for pests and diseases and treat as necessary.
  10. The tenth and final step is to enjoy your sweet bay magnolia tree!

Related plant:
Sweetgum

The Soil

About soil condition, the sweet bay magnolia tree prefer wet, boggy soils and are intolerant of drought conditions and compacted soils. They will grow in full sun to partial shade but prefer partial shade, especially in hot, humid climates. The soil should be acidic to neutral in pH.

About light

Not too different with other magnolia trees, the sweet bay magnolia tree needs lots of sun to grow and thrive. This tree grows best in full sun to partial sun, meaning it needs at least six hours of direct sunlight each day to do well. It's also important to plant this tree in a location that gets good air circulation to prevent problems with fungal diseases.

The Temperature

The temperature condition that is ideal for the sweet bay magnolia tree is between 50 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit. This tree is native to the southeastern United States, where the temperature conditions are typically mild.

Humidity Requirement

Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50-70% which can be provided by regular misting, grouping the plant with other plants, or using a humidifier. If the air is too dry, the leaves will start to brown and curl.

Fertilizer Requirement

The fertilizer, this family of plant needs, is also easy to find as it is something that many gardeners and farmers use. You can find it at your local garden center or hardware store. For the Sweet Bay Magnolia tree, use a fertilizer that is high in phosphorus.

About light

Pruning is a necessary part of keeping a sweet bay magnolia tree healthy and strong. Without regular pruning, the tree can become weak and susceptible to disease and pests. While pruning is important, it should be done properly in order to avoid damaging the tree.

The Propagation

Propagation is best accomplished by rooting semi-ripe cuttings taken from the sweet bay magnolia tree in late summer. The cuttings should be about 6 to 8 inches long and should have at least 2 leaves. Cut the bottom inch off of the cutting, and dip it in rooting hormone. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with moistened potting mix, and place the pot in a shady location. Keep the soil moist, but not soggy, and in 4 to 6 weeks the cutting should have rooted. Once rooted, transplant the young tree into a permanent location.

Growth Rate

Usually, the plant growth rate is about 12 to24 inches per year. Some trees may grow more rapidly, but this is not common. A young tree may even double its growth rate for the first few years. Once a tree is established, its growth rate slows considerably.

The Problems

Common problems for this kind of plant are scale, root rot, and powdery mildew. If you notice any of these problems on your tree, you should contact a certified arborist or tree care specialist for help.

Growing Tips

  • Do not forget to water your sweet bay magnolia tree regularly, especially during the hot summer months. It is best to water the tree deeply and less frequently, rather than shallow and more frequently.
  • Be sure to fertilize your sweet bay magnolia tree regularly. The best time to fertilize is in early spring and late fall.
  • Prune your sweet bay magnolia tree regularly to maintain its shape and size. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring.
  • Make sure to plant your sweet bay magnolia tree in an area that receives full sun.
  • Keep the area around your sweet bay magnolia tree free of weeds and other debris.
  • Do not allow any vines or other plants to grow on or around your sweet bay magnolia tree.
  • Cover the root system of your sweet bay magnolia tree with mulch to help protect it from the heat and cold.
  • Check

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Source:
Sweetbay Magnolia | Yale Nature Walk
Sweet Bay Magnolia - Bellarmine University
UNF - UNF Landscape - Magnolia virginiana - Sweet bay magnolia - unf.edu

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Reviewed & Published by Richelle
Submitted by our contributor
Trees Category