There aren’t many plants more southern than the magnolia, and Teddy Bear has all of the desirable characteristics you want in this charming tree. Its compact growth makes it a great choice for small gardens, and because of the dense branches and evergreen leaves, screening undesirable views is a snap. This low-maintenance shrub or tree (your choice; it’s all in the pruning) does need regular and deep watering, especially in the first couple of years after planting, but after that, it’s relatively drought tolerant for short periods of time. Enormous creamy white flowers make an appearance in spring, then reappear again in the early fall, filling the air with a lemony fragrance. And although the flowers take center stage, wildlife appreciate the oblong fruits with red seeds that ripen in the fall, making this dwarf magnolia even more valuable.