Back to Species

WoodSwatch · The Wood Ledger

Southern Magnolia

Magnolia grandiflora

Also known as: Evergreen Magnolia, Bull Bay, Large-flowered Magnolia

Technical Spec Sheet

2026-07-14

Southern Magnolia wood grain

Reference grain swatch

Janka Hardness
1,020 lbf (4,537 N)
Avg. Dried Weight
575 kg/m³ (36 lb/ft³)
Specific Gravity
0.5
Type
Hardwood
Grain
Straight to slightly interlocked; smooth surface after machining
Texture
Fine and uniform, diffuse-porous
Durability
Low to moderate natural durability; not recommended for exterior exposure
Region
North America
Sustainability
Sustainable — Common in the southeastern US; not commercially restricted

Overview

Southern Magnolia is a fine-textured hardwood from the southeastern United States, recognised as much for its iconic white flowers as for its pale, even-grained timber. Commercially underutilised relative to its qualities, it machines to an exceptionally smooth surface and is favoured for furniture, turning, and applications requiring fine detail work.

Diffuse-porous hardwood with fine, uniform texture and air-dried density of approximately 575 kg/m³. Janka hardness of 1,020 lbf places it comparable to Black Walnut. Straight grain machines cleanly. Tangential shrinkage 6.6%, radial 5.4% — moderate and relatively balanced.

Workshop Notes

Blunting Effect

Low — works cleanly with sharp tools

Gluing

Good with standard woodworking adhesives

Finishing

Excellent — takes stains and clear finishes evenly due to uniform texture

Steam Bending

Moderate steam bending capability

Scent

Faint, pleasant scent when worked

Assessment

Strengths

  • Fine uniform texture
  • Takes detail well in carving and turning
  • Good dimensional stability
  • Attractive pale colour under clear finish

Weaknesses

  • Low natural durability
  • Not widely available commercially outside its native range
  • Susceptible to checking during drying

Common Uses

Furniture · Venetian blinds · Cabinetry · Turning · Decorative veneer