Magnolias

Although the conspicuous blossoms of the magnolias (genus Magnolia) often conjure up images of the Southern climes, many species are at home in Highland Park. Thirty-five species, varieties or forms are represented, including two endangered species native to the southeastern United States: Ashe and Fraser. The magnolias are located on the protected slope just south of the reservoir. The blooming season begins in late April with the star magnolias followed in May by the saucer magnolias. Many of the American magnolias, including the sweetbay and bigleaf, flower during June and July.