What beauty and magnificence has spread across the Indiana countryside. When the magnolia buds first appear, their cone-shape is quite appealing to wild animals. Sometimes the lower branches show evidence of being nibbled upon. As soon as the sweet flowers appear, the entire tree is a vision of crinoline resembling the hooped petticoat of a Southern belle. The petal pink flowers often mark the beginning of Summer. Without a doubt, magnolias are a symbol of perseverance!