Cucumber Magnolia

Magnolia acuminata

744 4th Street

Charlie and Sada Pellum, who built the original home on this property, planted and nurtured a great number and variety of trees. The cucumber magnolia in front of the house (now Yates Funeral Home) must have been one of the most unusual in their collection. A native of eastern deciduous forests, it is rare in this area.

The large magnolia flowers are generally not noticed because they are green and borne high in the tree. After blooming, a green fruit develops, appearing in size and shape to be a cucumber. In October, the seeds on the outside of the fruit turn red.

At 73 feet tall, this tree is probably approaching its maximum height. However, it will continue to grow in trunk circumference (now 101 inches) and crown spread.

Nominated by: Ken Roberge