Sweetbay magnolia

Sweetbay magnolia
Magnolia virginiana

While there may be several species of magnolia planted in Delaware, only sweetbay magnolia, more commonly found in wet areas of southern Delaware, is actually native. Deciduous in the northern part of its range, it can reach over 60 feet tall on ideal sites. Its wood is soft and used occasionally for minor products such as handles, novelty woodenware, and lower-grade furniture.

Sweetbay magnolia has creamy white flowers that are very fragrant. Its deciduous leaves are 4 to 6 inches long and oblong in shape.