5 Fragrant Flowers

Southern magnolia   (Magnolia grandiflora)
"I love the smell of magnolia when the wind blows. Its gentle scent turns a breeze sweet." --Melvin Brown, Birmingham Light: Full sun keeps these stately trees full and lush, although they adapt to partial shade as well.
Water and soil: Magnolias prefer well-drained, rich soil. Newly planted trees must be well watered during the first several growing seasons.
Garden secret: Choose the selection carefully; some classic Southern magnolias may reach 80 feet tall when mature. But others, such as 'Little Gem,' slowly climb to a petite 20 feet. A named selection ensures the characteristics you require.

Oriental lily   (Lilium sp.)
"As a child, I thought the rubrum lily was the most exotic flower I'd ever seen. Now, with a garden full of lilies, my wife, Yates, and I have learned to separate the selections. Each has its own perfume and benefits from a little breathing room." --Tommy Amason, Birmingham
Light: Bulbs should be shaded by other plants, with foliage and flowers in full sun or filtered light.
Water and soil: Oriental lilies require loose, well-drained soil. In heavy clay, add copious amounts of leaf mold, peat, or soil conditioner. Water bulbs consistently throughout the year.
Garden secret: Grow lilies in containers; while they're blooming, you can bring them close to the house for fragrance where you want it.