Considered to be one of the very best of the evergreen magnolias, 'Kay Parris' an introduction from Gilberts Nursery Inc., is a relative newcomer. Believed to be a cross between two other fine magnolia varieties, 'Little Gem' and 'Bracken's Brown Beauty', this small tree or multi-stemmed large shrub can stand up to any of its competition as long as it is provided regular watering. The leaves are a glossy, medium green with wavy leaf margins. Unlike its 'Little Gem' parent, this selection has a deep orange-brown, almost velvet-like underside to its leaves. The extremely fragrant flowers are a bit smaller than the standard Southern magnolia and appear from late May to late September.

Plant Type: Tree

Light: Full to Part Sun

Soil: Moist, well drained

Water Requirements: Adaptable

Bloom Time: Summer

Evergreen or Deciduous: Evergreen

Full Size: 15-20' tall x 10' wide

Flower image: Doug McAbeeCC BY-NC 2.0