Franklin tree - *Franklinia alatamaha*

Franklinia alatamaha is one of the most fascinating ornamental trees in the horticultural world. It is unique in its kind: it is the only species in the genus Franklinia, and above all, it has been extinct in the wild since the early 19th century. All Franklin trees cultivated today are descended from seeds collected in 1773 by American botanists John Bartram and William Bartram.

Description

• Small deciduous tree.
• Height: generally 4 to 8 meters.
• Width: 3 to 5 meters.
• Pyramidal habit in youth, then more rounded with age.
• Elegant grey bark.

Flowering

This is its main attraction.

• Large white flowers 6 to 10 cm in diameter.
• Center adorned with golden yellow stamens.
• Appearance reminiscent of camellia or gardenia flowers.
• Flowering from late summer to early autumn.

What makes it exceptional is that it often blooms while its foliage is already beginning to show its autumn colors.

Foliage

• Dark green, glossy leaves.
• 10 to 15 cm long.
• Remarkable autumn colors: vibrant orange, scarlet red, purple, and sometimes golden yellow on the same tree.

Among ornamental trees, it is often considered one of the most beautiful for autumn coloration.

Growing Conditions

• Exposure: sun or light partial shade.
• Soil: acidic, rich in organic matter, and perfectly drained.
• Moisture: fresh but never waterlogged soil.
• Roots: quite sensitive to disturbance; it is best to carefully choose its location when planting.

Hardiness

• Generally zone 5 to 8.
• In southern Quebec, it can be successfully grown in a sheltered location.
• Very harsh winters and heavy soils are the main challenges.

It can thrive in a good microclimate:

• location sheltered from prevailing winds;
• excellent drainage;
• protection from intense winter sun;
• generous winter mulch.

A Tree Full of History

The species once grew only along the Altamaha River, in the state of Georgia. Despite several searches, no wild specimens have been found since the early 1800s.

Its name honors Benjamin Franklin, a friend of the Bartram family.