Magnolia's

The entrance to our subdivision, Magnolia Point, is lined with Magnolia trees. This tree is a magnificent spectacle with it's large, tennis ball size blossom, and, when fully open, a flower that is, large, white and fragrant. It's center is yellow and sets off nicely against the white flower. The trees are now in full bloom and the effect is most pleasing. The white flower shows up against large leaves that are deep green with a satin, polished, shiny finish. Right now this is the spectacle that we see. If you buy an imitation Magnolia tree it will have exactly what I have just described. There is a down side to having a Magnolia tree. The underside of the leaf is a copper, brown color and, when seen, gives the impression that it is dead and about to fall. This is a very large tree and looking up will reveal the underside of the leaves near the top of the tree. The visual effect near the top is not as pleasing as the bottom. At times the bottom leaves are turned by the wind and, again, the effect is not as pleasing. As the days go by, the wind effect will cause the leaves to turn and more of the tree yields to a less pleasing appearance. Because the wind turns the leaves, the leaf is damaged and it will shortly fall to the ground. This causes an unsightly appearance under the tree and this trash on the ground makes it difficult to grow grass under the tree. (The same barren ground is seen under Banyan and Royal Poinciana trees.) When new-comers to Florida buy into this area they fall in love with the Magnolia entrance and insist on having at least one Magnolia tree on their property. Consequently, we have many Magnolias in this subdivision. Few homeowners are pleased with their tree once they experience the difficulty in maintaining a picturesque lawn. We have no Magnolia trees on our property and prefer to enjoy the sight of them at the entrance to this subdivision. In this way we have the southern charm and beauty and none of the maintenance. I like that.