Kay Parris is a compact, fast-growing Southern magnolia cultivar prized for its elegant evergreen foliage, improved cold tolerance, and long blooming period. It produces large, fragrant, creamy white flowers from early summer into fall—each bloom reaching 6 to 8 inches wide and releasing a sweet, lemony scent.
This variety grows in a dense, upright form to about 20 to 25 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide, making it more space-friendly than traditional magnolias. The glossy, deep green leaves feature distinctive wavy edges and rich, copper-colored undersides that add year-round interest. 'Kay Parris' is notably more cold-hardy than other M. grandiflora cultivars and performs well in USDA Zones 6–9.
Key Features:
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Large, lemon-scented white blooms (6–8 in.) from summer through fall
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Compact, upright evergreen habit: 20–25 ft. tall, 10–15 ft. wide
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Glossy green foliage with wavy edges and copper undersides
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Improved cold tolerance
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Excellent for specimen planting, screening, or smaller landscapes
Kay Parris Magnolia brings classic Southern beauty in a more manageable size, offering extended bloom, evergreen structure, and year-round appeal.