Photos

The seed pod of the Southern Magnolia (Magnolia Grandiflora). When the flower petals have died this seed pod will continue to grow. It will turn brown and have bright red seeds protruding from the main hull. I am sure I will post pictures of this process as summer progresses. The flowers of these Magnolias are an average of 20 cm across when fully open, with large white petals.
Chinese herbalists use Magnolia Flower as a remedy for clogged sinus and nasal passages. In conjunction with other herbs, such as angelica, mint, and chrysanthemum, it is often recommended for upper respiratory tract infections and sinus headaches, although its effectiveness for these problems has not been scientifically confirmed.
It's actually the buds--not the fully developed Magnolia blooms--that are used medicinally. In laboratory studies, the buds seem to retard certain fungal growths, but their decongestant effect remains unexplained.
Follow
this link for more info on the Southern Magnolia.