Tree Information
Common Name: Yulan magnolia
Scientific Name: Magnolia denudata
Native/Naturalized: Not Naturalized
Database ID: 373
Status: alive
National Champion: no
Virginia Champion: yes
Circumference: 112 in.
Height: 43 ft.
Crown: 51 ft.
Points: 168
Date Last Measured: 2020
Last Measured by: Jon Rockett, Yvonne Rockett
Date First Measured: 1988
Comments: Previously identified as Magnolia x soulangeana until summer 2020 when an article came out about notable trees on the UVA campus, and this tree was profiled as Magnolia denudata.
Estimated to be around 100 years old, this highly photographed magnolia is known for its interesting branch collars. Part of its scientific name, denudata, means bare or naked, and calls attention to how the flowers bloom before the leaves emerge. This tree often graces Instagram and holiday cards for generations of Hoos, or serves as a playground for children because of its unique structure. (UVAToday June 20, 2019).
Trunk forks into two leaders at 2' above ground. The individual trunks were 86" (4' above ground) and 72" (5.6' above ground), measured at varying heights to avoid error from bulging branch collars. Composite trunk circumference calculated based on these measurements. Previously measured in 2015 by Greg Zell at 152", 41', 53', 206 points (using basal measurement of trunk).
Location of Tree
Tree is located in: City of Charlottesville
Land Owner: University of Virginia
GPS Coordinates: 38.03603, -78.50273
Directions: Tree is growing on University of Virginia campus near the intersection of University Avenue and Madison Lane, adjacent to the Rotunda in a landscaped square.
Owner Phone: 434-982-4668
Contact Information
Contact Name: Robert Hopkins
Contact Email: rmh3f@virginia.edu
Contact Phone: 434-982-4668
Contact Info: Robert Hopkins, UVA Landscape Dept Ground Supervisor
Nominators
Original Nominator(s): Byron Carmean, Gary Williamson
Additional Information