Thanks so much for the replies. The reason for the dwarf is space. I saw Teddy Bear recently and really liked the dark color of the leaves. It was standing next to Little Gem, and there wasn't much difference, though TB might have been a bit darker. I initially liked Alta because of its upright form, which would work well in my space, but from what I understand, TB and LG might also be upright? I wish I could order some of the more interesting varieties, but I want as large a size as I can afford right now, and I'm afraid shipping would be prohibitive on that. I just talked to someone today who said LG is hardy in my area. So if TB and LG are also upright like Alta, then I have 3 choices which work in terms of size and form. I just don't know how to decide among them. Is one faster growing than the others, maybe? Thanks again.

Is the tree you are considering pot-grown or B&B or what? A 10' tall Southern Magnolia should have a pretty big rootball. How large is the rootball on the one you are considering? Do you have the ability to handle a rootball that large? As j0nd03 said, now is not the best time to plant a tree, but the odds of it surviving depends on many things including its current condition and how it's treated during and after planting. Planting it now is not the killer, but what it's gone through so far and what you have to do to it (especially root system preparation) when planting it can be. If your tree is pot-grown, be aware that it may require extensive root pruning to straighten out the pot-bound root system (a death sentence this time of year). If it were me, I'd wait until fall to plant it. That should be the optimal time in your area, and it will make the work much easier (because it will be cooler). I'd also probably consider starting with a little smaller tree, which could establish more quickly and grow faster, if I was going to be doing the planting by myself. The link below may have some additional useful info for you. Here is a link that might be useful: Planting a Tree or Shrub

Ooh I'm sorry, I know they're supposed to be red. It was a slightly yellow coloration that I was talking about. My camera is being repaired right now so I was using my phone for the pictures,so it is a bit difficult to see.. sorry about that. But thank you for the ID! Greatly appreciated. :)

I have attended the last three Teddy Bear tosses at the Calgary Saddledome. The last one was a little over a week ago, and 28, 815 stuffed animals hit the ice. I wish I could upload the video I took of the goal and the bears flying, that I just happened to get. I started to film and a second later our team scored! Then my phone got thrown out of my hands when a stuffed animal hit it. Lucky for me, it landed on the floor one row down. :) This link will take you to my youtube page and the video from the 2014 game. I should upload the 2015 game too....2014 Calgary Hitmen TeddyBear toss