Felder Rushing
Family
Theaceae
Botanical Name
Franklinia alatamaha
Plant Common Name
Franklin Tree, Franklinia
General Description
The Franklin tree is a plant-lover's dream addition to the garden. Native to Georgia in the southeastern United States, it is now believed extinct in the wild but is preserved and prized in gardens. This multi-trunked small tree has long, glossy green leaves in spring and summer on upright, open branches. In late summer and into autumn, beautiful white, fragrant, camellia-like flowers dot the canopy. In some climates, these flowers coincide with the fiery orange-red fall foliage. Once the leaves have dropped, the Franklin tree's white-striped, milk-chocolate-colored bark provides ornament.
Grow the prized Franklin tree in a humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil with good drainage. It thrives in full sun, accepts light shade, and prefers afternoon shade in hot climates. It is reliably hardy to zone 6 but can survive in zone 5 with protection. A terrific specimen tree (or large shrub) for the lawn or border, it would be lovely near a walkway or patio. It works nicely in woodland gardens and is a great larger companion for rhododendrons and azaleas.
Characteristics
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AHS Heat Zone
9 - 6
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USDA Hardiness Zone
6 - 9
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Sunset Zone
3b, 4, 5, 6, 14, 15, 16, 17
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Plant Type
Tree
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Sun Exposure
Full Sun, Partial Sun
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Height
10'-30' / 3.0m - 9.1m (20)
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Width
10'-15' / 3.0m - 4.6m
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Bloom Time
Late Summer, Early Fall
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Native To
Southeastern United States
