Franklinia alatamaha
- Common Name(s):
- Franklinia
- Categories:
- Shrubs, Trees
- Comment:
Franklin tree usualy grows as a single trunked tree with a rounded crown but it can also be a multi-trunked shrub. Prefers full sun, but some afternoon shade the summer. It can be difficult to transplant because of a sparsely fibrous root system, so plan well when planting. Lovely tree but it can struggle in urban conditions.
Native to Georgia.
Seasons of Interest:
Leaves: Fall; Bloom: Late Summer early Fall, showy
Insects, Diseases, or Other Plant Problems: Consider planting in raised beds in areas with heavy clay. Do not plant where cotton has been grown as there is a pathogen that affects cotton that also affects Franklin trees. Wilt and root rot can also be serious problems. In general, this tree has a reputation for being difficult to grow.
- Height:
- 10-20 ft.
- Foliage:
- 5" long glossy, narrow, oblong, green simple leaves turn red, orange, and purple with fall color.
- Flower:
- Sweetly fragrant; 3 in. white camellia-like flowers with egg yolk yellow stamens late summer early fall
- Zones:
- 5-8
- Habit:
- Deciduous
- Site:
- Sun to light shade; moist, well-drained organically rich soil; dislikes wet sites
- Texture:
- Medium
- Form:
- Upright; spreading branches
- Width:
- 6-15 ft.
- Growth Rate:
- Moderate
- Leaf:
- 5-6 in. alternate, simple leaves; maroon fall color; holds leaves late into fall
NCCES plant id: 1998
