Ann, Susan and Jane are being produced in Florida. Susan is the favorite of many growers. Other good cultivars include Centennial, Rosea Jane Platt, Leonard Messel, Merril, Royal Star and Waterlily. Magnolia soulangiana makes up the largest and best known category of deciduous magnolias. They are broad spreading small trees that are well adapted to northern Florida.
Flowers vary by cultivar, ranging from white to pink to purple.
Some good cultivars include Alexandrina, Brozzonii, Deep Purple Dream and Grace McDade. The Gresham hybrids are an interesting group because they produce the largest plants, as well as the largest flowers and leaves. Some produce saucer-shaped flowers that are up to 12 inches in diameter. Some of the best cultivars now growing in Florida include Dark Shadow, Darrell Dean, Full Eclipse, Heaven Scent, Pink Goblet, Royal Crown and Winelight. Select cultivars, or varieties based upon how they will be used in the landscape.