You might think Americans wouldn't care much about what's on their state flags. But studying state identities has taught me ...

According to the White House Historical Association, the magnolia had become a powerful symbol, featured on U.S. currency, official photographs, and countless ceremonial backdrops.

Magnolias are a classic symbol of the South ... The blooms have a fragrance, although subtle. Asian magnolia cultivars were introduced here in America 1780. They were multi-stemmed but upright ...