The Big Leaf Magnolia is noted for having large simple leaves and flowers. It seldom grows to larger than 50 feet.The bark is thin, gray, and smooth. Bigleaf Magnolia has huge leaves that are 12 to 36 inches long, and ivory-colored flowers that average 8 to 10 inches across. The tree’s coarse appearance makes it difficult to use in residential areas. It can be used as a specimen tree or shade tree in parks or other large areas. Bigleaf Magnolia can be grown in full sun or part shade.