Dickson, TN – May 19, 2025 – Hold your breath, nature lovers! A true botanical marvel is gracing our very own City of Dickson Arboretum. The magnificent Magnolia macrophylla, also known as the Bigleaf Magnolia or Large Leaf Magnolia, is in bloom, offering a lovely sight for all who visit. This event couldn’t be timelier, as the Arboretum celebrates its official Grand Opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony as a certified Tennessee Urban Forestry Council (TUFC) Arboretum tomorrow, May 20th at 1 pm, in Buckner Park!
For those unfamiliar, the Bigleaf Magnolia is a tree that truly lives up to its name. It boasts the largest simple leaves of any North American native tree that can reach an astonishing 30 inches or more in length! Imagine standing beneath a canopy of these colossal, lush green leaves, gently rustling in the spring breeze.
But the true showstoppers, appearing from May to early summer, are the flowers. Enormous and creamy-white, these fragrant blossoms can span an incredible 8 to 14 inches in diameter. It’s a sensory delight, with a sweet fragrance that attracts pollinators like beetles – a nod to its ancient lineage.

The City of Dickson Arboretum, nestled within J. Dan Buckner Park, is home to these incredible trees – look for specimens tagged A013 and a smaller tree at B005.
So, pack a picnic, bring your camera, and take a stroll through the City of Dickson Arboretum any day that weather permits ~ blooms are fleeting, don’t miss out. Witnessing the Bigleaf Magnolia in bloom is an experience you won’t soon forget. While you’re there, explore the many other native and ornamental tree species that make our Arboretum a true gem.
Please note: While the magnolias are anticipated to be in their prime blooming period, the exact timing of nature’s displays can vary.