A good idea.... looks like it would be great for sheltering a
house.... but the size is a little extreme 50' -75' tall with
equal spread. The entire cul-de-sac would be full, not
to mention the root system would probably disrupt the entire
neighborhood water, sewage and electrical system.

I think you overestimate the rambunctiousness of this tree-- yes, over time
it will form a massive, spreading tree (typically 35-40 feet tall and half
again as wide as it approaches maturity). It's commonly used as a street
tree/boulevard tree in the south). Combined with the confines of its
smallish planting area and cooler northern temps and you have a very
maneagable choice.

I'd like to second that. It's a marvelous tree, beautiful in
form, sturdy, and well suited to your climate. Unless your
site is extremely windy (not likely for a cul-de-sac), it
should grow reasonably upright in form, not as low and
spreading as those right along the coast. The shape can be
encouraged with careful pruning. The result will be a much
nicer spot for placing benches and underplantings than a
magnolia. Even when the tree gets very large (100+ years from
now), it may overhang the street, but that will be the canopy,
which will be well off the ground. It's a beauty.


Mike Prager
Beaufort, NC (on the coast in zone 8a)
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