Thomas Jefferson planted the Umbrella Magnolia numerous times, beginning in 1767 at Shadwell, his birth site; in 1778, when he planted 32 trees in the Upper Grove at Monticello; and in 1810 when he planted a “row of Umbrella seeds” in the terrace of his nursery. He also sent seeds of this native species to his friend Madame de Tessé in Paris, and listed it as an ornamental tree in his only published book, Notes on the State of Virginia, 1782. The Umbrella Magnolia was first introduced to Britain in 1752, likely from seed sent to Philip Miller by Philadelphia naturalist John Bartram. The tree was growing in the Chelsea Physic Garden by 1755.

Visit Monticello’s Online Shop to check for seeds or plants of Umbrella Magnolia.

Typical Blooming Months: March-April
Blossom Color(s): White
Location at Monticello: Upper Grove