However, in the north it is a small tree between ten and twenty feet, perfect as a patio tree. Sweet bay is a very adaptable plant. Unlike most magnolias, it will grow in Wet, even Swampy Soil . It also tolerates Shade . Most magnolias need full sun to flower, but not sweet bay.
Magnolias have very large leaves.
Large leaves tend to lend a tropical feeling to the landscape. Sweet bay's long blooming time and bright red seed heads further accentuate the plant s lush tropical appearance. My sweet bays are just babies now, about four feet tall and rather thin. However, I won t have to wait terribly long for them to become more prominent. They will grow more than a foot a year, producing more flowers and seeds each year.