The Southern Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is, IMHO, not always the best
choice unless you have a *large* area in which to plant. They will easily
make 60-80' over time, grow low, drooping branches that shade out the
possibility of planting underneath, and finally produce heavy, waxy leathery
brown leaves that are a bear to rake up. I like the tree visually, but there
are those considerations. There is a lovely dwarf variety of grandiflora
called 'Little Gem' which will only make 15-20' over time.

The Sweetbay Magnolia is a gorgeous smaller tree, as are the Stellatas and
the Soulangianas. See

http://www.bestgardening.com/bgc/plant/magnolia01.htm

Dave

"Callen Molenda" wrote in message
...
FarmerDill wrote:

I recently moved from the California coast to a suburban house
in central Virginia. Waynesboro, to be exact -- which is just
off the west side of the Blue Ridge mountains, not too far
from Charlottesville.


I grew up on the eastern slope. Just about any temperate zone tree or
shrub
will grow in the area. The primary natives are oak and hickory but most
of the
conifers from the north will grow if you don't have competition from
natives.
As for ornamentals doqwood is the state flower and redbud (Judas trees)
grow
wild in the woods; again anything that grows in a temperate climate, No
magnolias or live oaks,

Why do you say no magnolias? I live in Charlottesville and we have
magnolias out the wazoo.

Also dogwoods, redbud, mimosa, japanese red maple, poplar, maple, locust
(yuck), curly willow....