In forest conditions stems are tall and straight. Umbrella magnolia is a tree that rarely exceeds 40 feet in height. The tree is made conspicuous by its large leaves and showy, white flowers. This southeastern Ohio native is found in Scioto, Jackson, Vinton, and Hocking counties. The foliage is medium green above and pale green and hairy beneath.
Umbrella magnolia has a wedge-shaped leaf base.
Twigs and buds are glabrous. The trunk and branches are a mottled, light gray color. Widespreading main branches form an open, irregular crown. The tree is often multi-stemmed. Flowers are white with an unpleasant odor.