Magnolia grandiflora
Southern Magnolia, is a unique and ancient flowering plant dating back about 95 million years to the time of the dinosaurs! Its beautiful, large perfumed flowers are "primitive" and evolved before bees existed, relying on beetles for pollination. The tough petals and reproductive parts are a result of adapting to beetle activity. Another fascinating feature is its cone-like fruit, which contains striking bright red seeds. These seeds are covered in a fleshy coating that attracts birds and small mammals, aiding in their dispersal, making the magnolia not only stunning but important for the ecosystem