Taylor Hicks talks about the sweetbay magnolia © Denise Truscello

Stories in Tennessee

If Trees Could Sing: Taylor Hicks

Taylor Hicks talks about the sweetbay magnolia and the benefits that trees provide us.

September 12, 2018

Taylor Hicks is known for his rough-around-the-edges soulful voice and his distinctive blend of country, R&B and rock. He charmed America in 2006 when he became the winning singer on the fifth season of American Idol. He has recorded several original albums and continues to tour regularly around the United States.

More music artists talk about trees . . .

Taylor Hicks Taylor Hicks talks about the sweetbay magnolia for The nature Conservancy's "If Trees Could Sing" video series.

A white flower emerges from green foliage. — Sweetbay Magnolia A flower blooms on a sweet bay magnolia tree. © Creative Commons/Carol Foil

Cool Tree Fact

Did you know...? Approximately 25 percent of our nation's tree canopy is in our backyards and cities.

Sweetbay Magnolia Facts

Plant in late fall or winter when the tree is dormant, unless the ground is frozen. Allow plenty of room for the tree to mature and grow. Water regularly in its first three years. Spread mulch around the base of the tree..

Scientific name: Magnolia virginiana
Range: the Atlantic Coast and Gulf Coast states and into Tennessee
Height: up to 60 feet tall
Fruit: conelike clusters of bright red seeds
Flowers: creamy white with a strong vanilla scent
Semi-Evergreen: this tree retains its leaves year-round in the South, but loses them in the North

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