Magnolia flowers came into existence long before the bees did, and therefore, they were pollinated by beetles.

The magnolia tree was discovered by a French botanist, Charles Plumier, on the island of Martinique (France). Locally referred to as 'talauma', he gave the species the genus name Magnolia, after Pierre Magnol, another famous French botanist. After Plumier, it was William Sherard, an English botanist who began using the genus name magnolia and adopted the same.

The magnolia flower meanings are both, interesting and intriguing and have a rather fascinating history associated with them. Their meaning varies according to the different cultures and locations, because the magnolia plant varieties are native to both, Asia and the Americas. Endurance, Eternity, and Long Life Of the many interesting facts about the magnolia flower, the most striking one is that it is a very old flower. In fact, there are fossils dating back 20 million years that show that the flower has been gracing Earth since the very beginning of time, so to say. The magnolia is also a very tough, hard flower, unlike other delicate flowers. This is owing to the fact that it has had to adapt to changing climactic and geological conditions in order to survive, and it is precisely due to this feature that the flower represents endurance, eternity, and long life. Beauty and Magnificence The magnolia flowers bloom boldly and are large in size, add to this their subtle, yet pleasing colors and they make for a thing of beauty. But what really enhances their beauty further is the distinct fragrance that they emanate―all these features lend them the meaning of splendid beauty and magnificence. According to Colors Magnolia flowers are available in a variety of colors and each color lends to a different meaning. Here is how they are represented. According to Countries In China, the Jade orchid or Magnolia denudata, has been cultivated for thousand of years. The magnolia flowers mean 'certainly' when they are used at the beginning of other sentiments along with other symbols. In China, magnolia flowers are symbols of purity and nobility. In Japan, the magnolia is used as a medicinal and ornamental plant. The flower is called Hanakotoba in the Japanese system of flower meanings. This means that the flower is sublime, natural, and shows love for nature. In America, the magnolia flower is largely associated with the South. The magnolia is the harbinger of the arrival of spring and is the official state flower of Mississippi and Louisiana. Mississippi has earned the nickname 'Magnolia State' due to the abundance of magnolia flowering blossoms. In fact, Mississippi also uses the magnolia as its state tree. The city of Houston, Texas is called the 'Magnolia City' due to the scores of magnolia trees growing along the Buffalo Bayou. Other Meanings ► During the Victorian times, the magnolia flowers symbolized dignity, nobility, poise, and pride. ► The strength of its bloom is also symbolic of self-respect and self-esteem. ► Since these flowers represent durability, strength of character, and bearing, they are widely used in weddings. ► Magnolias are also associated with the life force and therefore can be sent over on the occasion of birth. ► These flowers also represent a love of nature.