2025 December 28 Sweetbay Magnolia Marcescence

When we think about using plants for privacy, we tend to stick to the classic arborvitae and our native pine trees, since they keep their dense green foliage year-round. I challenge you to think outside the box though! We should consider deciduous plantings that exhibit marcescence for privacy too. Marcescence is when trees and shrubs hang onto their leaves through the winter. 

Check out this Sweetbay Magnolia’s winter interest at one of the NEORSD sites!

Sweetbay Magnolia Magnolia virginiana is a showstopper in the winter months, especially in colder climates like Ohio. She may drop some leaves, but the majority stay until spring. A lovely Sweetbay Magnolia keeps my front window private throughout the year. This year, some of the leaves turned a light orange, while the others stayed dark green. It’s a stunning mix of color, especially when it snows!

In December my Sweetbay Magnolia is keeping the front window

Just wait until summer when gorgeous white blooms fill the air with sweet perfume! Sweetbay Magnolia is my absolute favorite year-round shrub.

A fragrant white Magnolia flower after a summer shower!