This species boasts the largest simple leaf and single flower of any native plant in North America.

The flowers are typically six or nine-petaled (two or three whorls of three petals each, the larger ones with a dime-sized purple blotch at the base).

Natural regeneration is quite limited due to the scarcity of mature, seed-bearing plants and the fact that this tree's population mostly consists of widely scattered individuals.

The fruit is eaten by wildlife, but because of the plant's scarceness, it does not form a significant portion of any creature's diet.

The Florida Department of Agriculture lists the Ashe magnolia as endangered, due to its small population and restricted range.

[13] This tree will likely succeed in sites that closely mimic its natural habitat and where it is protected from strong wind that can tatter its large foliage.

It can be grown farther north than its southerly range suggests, but needs watering during extended dry periods.