Native to moist woodlands of the coastal plain.
Bark smells of lemons when crushed/bruised. Druse describes the flowers of 'Edith Bogue' as being lemon-scented and those of 'Bracken's Brown Beauty' as smelling "exactly" like ginger.
Shallow roots, dense shade, and low branches (which may even root on contacting the ground) prevent undergrowth of turf, yet a deep soil is still required as per the USDA. Drought tolerance is debated and conditional on having plenty of room for roots. Prone to girdling roots, so correct any circling roots before planting.
Missouri BG stands alone in claiming sensitivity to pollution. Sandy soil tolerance is debated (Dove/Woolridge and JerseyYards.org vs. NCSU and the USDA).
Seedlings vary greatly in habit, so it's a good thing that so many cultivars are available.
'Bracken's Brown Beauty' (compact) and 'Edith Bogue' (more open) have received the PHS Gold Medal Award. 'Kay Parris' ("restrained") and 'Little Gem' rebloom. 'Hasse' is dense and upright, even with age. 'Southern Charm' (Teddy Bear) is extremely dense with smaller leaves.
Sources: Dove/Woolridge, Sunset, UFL, JerseyYards.org, Missouri BG, UConn, Dirr, NCSU, USDA, Bir, Druse, Dirr/Warren.
Buy the species or 'Little Gem' at PlantingTree.com (affiliate link; supports this website)
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