Magnolias are part of a plant family of around 337 species found across eastern North America, Central and South America as well as in East and Southeastern Asia. In the wild they are found in montane habitats. They are common as street and garden trees in the southern U.S.
M. asheii flower closeup (3/29/2020) by Jeff TalbertSoutheastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Around 50% of all Magnolia species are threatened with extinction. The quality wood produced by some large species as well as amazing flowers have made some Magnolias a target of over harvesting for use in construction and in the ornamental trade...
M. acuminata (11/26/2020) by Jeff TalbertSoutheastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Others are threatened by habitat conversion from forests to agricultural or urban areas. The diversity of Magnolias and their habitats around the world can make a complex picture when aiming to conserve these species, however we can combine the strengths of many Magnolia experts, land managers and conservation professionals.
M. asheii flower (4/8/2020) by Jeff TalbertSoutheastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Magnolia ashei (or Ashe’s Magnolia) is endemic to Northwest Florida. It is a small tree with large leaves and flowers. Its population is highly fragmented in habitats facing degradation from pollution and development.
M. asheii tree (4/8/2020) by Jeff TalbertSoutheastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Studies on the genetic diversity of Ashe's Magnolia in different parts of its range are guiding projects to ensure the full diversity of the species is conserved.
M. zenii flower (3/10/2021) by John EvansSoutheastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
Magnolia zenii is known as Baohua Yulan in its native China. This Critically Endangered species is known in only one location. It is rare in the wild yet is found in almost 70 botanic gardens around the world.
M. zenii flower (3/10/2021) by John EvansSoutheastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
For Magnolia zenii, botanic gardens have a huge role to play in conserving its genetic diversity. Work is underway to understand how much diversity is in botanic gardens and how to best manage those collections in coordination.
M. grandiflora flower (5/6/2020) by Jeff TalbertSoutheastern Center for Conservation at the Atlanta Botanical Garden
The aim of the Global Conservation Consortium for Magnolia is to ensure that no wild Magnolia species goes extinct.
We are bringing together global experts, conservationists and botanic gardens to prioritize species of conservation concern, ensure their protection in the wild, increase species and genetic diversity in conservation collections.
All whilst building conservation knowledge and awareness in areas of diversity for Magnolia species.
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