Magnolia has a long association with China. Since ancient times, it has been used in Chinese medicines. The bark of the plant, which has a mild fragrance, is found to be effective for allergic reactions and for asthma. In addition to this, the plant has anti- anxiety properties also.

Magnolia belongs to the family of ‘magnoliaceae’. It is believed to be one of the most primitive species of flowers. Since the pollination of the plants was done by the beetles in the prehistoric times, the female reproductive organ of the flower is found to be very tough, in order to protect it from insect attack. The flower is a tepal in which the sepals of the flower resemble the petals. Magnolia is said to have about 210 species of plants.

All these different species can be found in North, South and Central Americas, east and south-east Asia and the West Indies. The attractive appearance of the flower has made it extremely popular as a garden flower. It is widely used for landscaping purposes. Magnolia is the declared state flower of Mississippi and Louisiana.