Leaves
The leaves are alternate, simple, smooth and leathery, dark green, and shiny on top. The leaves are four to six inches long with a pointed end. The leaves turn bright red before falling.

Flowers
The flowers are white and showy and are approximately two and ½-inches wide. The five waxy petals have a cup shape and each petal is covered with silky hairs on its bottom surface. Each flower has multiple yellow stamens. The tree blossoms in mid-summer for a period of several weeks. Flowers are found singly on long, red flower stalks in the leaf axils.

Fruit
Information not available.

Trunk
The bark is a dark reddish-brown or gray, thick, and covered by furrows surrounded by flat ridges.

Propagation
Information not available.

Landscape usage
The Loblolly Bay is an excellent ornamental tree if cared for properly. It needs abundant moisture, and is not salt-spray tolerant.

Interesting Facts
Historically, the bark of this tree was used for tanning hides.

Loblolly Bay flowers

For more detailed information on this plant go to:
Volusia Extension