When people think of magnolia trees or read about them in novels of the old South, the Southern Magnolia is very likely the plant that comes to mind. This magnolia’s flower is the state flower of Louisiana and Mississippi. The Southern Magnolia is a large evergreen tree that needs lots of space. Its elliptical leaves are large and leathery, up to 10 inches long. Its white flowers appear mid-summer to early autumn and can be as much as 12 inches across. While most magnolias prefer full sun, the Southern Magnolia thrives in partial shade.