A landscaper/horticulturist has suggested planting a Southern Magnolia in my backyard about 12-ft from my house. I’m not 100% sold on magnolia because I remember my childhood neighbor’s yard being covered in crunchy uncomfortable leaves, and I have read they’re toxic to dogs. He says mildly toxic but no dog would eat them (ha!) and it’s “almost” an evergreen, leaves easy to pick up a couple weeks a year. However, I’d like a tree that’s native to MD, evergreen and with fruit/leaves that are not toxic to dogs if they drop. Any suggestions? It’s a full-sun area, southeastern exposure. We are in the northwestern corner of Prince George’s County. Help!