The leaves are a key ornamental feature and give the tree its name. They are a deep, glossy green on top and a rich, fuzzy reddish-brown to cinnamon-brown felt-like underside. The leaves are smaller and more rounded than those of a traditional Southern Magnolia. This contrast provides year-round color and texture. It is a broadleaf evergreen, meaning it holds its leaves all year. From late spring through summer, the tree produces large, showy, fragrant, creamy-white, cup-shaped flowers. While they are the classic magnolia flower, they are slightly smaller than those of the common Southern Magnolia, but they are equally fragrant and beautiful.