Cucumbertree Magnolia
(Magnolia acuminata)
Tree on west side of granite steps, north side of Memorial Union
- Native range New York to Georgia; largest trees in southern Appalachian Mountains; hardiest of the eight native magnolia species in the U.S.
- Genus name honors Pierre Magnol, French botanist (1638–1715).
- Named for cucumber-like fruit that comes after the attractive tulip-like flowers.
- Planted as ornamental in Maine because of beauty of flowers, fruit and foliage.