Nancy Reagan – Yulan Magnolia

Nancy Reagan poses with a shovel, prepared to plant a tree at the White House north lawn.

Courtesy Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum / NARA

Magnolia denudate

May 13, 1982

First Lady Nancy Reagan planted a pair of magnolia trees on the North Grounds of the White House on May 13, 1982. The trees framed the North Lawn along the north fence line. Only the east tree, a Yulan magnolia, still survives.

 
A large flowering tree at the edge of the White House fence
Yulan magnolia (2024)

NPS / Kelsey Graczyk

A bronze plaque on a tree trunk labels the Reagan magnolia tree.
Yulan magnolia commemorative plaque (2025)

NPS / Kelsey Graczyk

A round, leafy tree stands alone on a grassy lawn in front of the White House.
Yulan magnolia (2023)

NPS / Kelsey Graczyk

 

 

Last updated: May 30, 2025

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1849 C Street NW
Room 1426
Washington, DC 20240

Phone:

202 208-1631

Contact Us

Tools

Stay Connected