Uniquely Different Franklinia Tree

Franklinia at NC Arboretum in Asheville, NC

Franklinia (Franklinia altamaha) is a U.S. native large shrub or small tree to 10-25 feet tall. Rated hardy in USDA hardiness zones 5-8, the tree seems best suited in zones 6 to 7.

Success with growing franklinia depends on purchasing a quality nursery plant, proper siting, and care, particularly during the first 2-3 years. Franklinia is only available from e-commerce nurseries and is best planted from late winter to early summer.

The species was first discovered growing in 1765 growing along the banks of the Altamaha River in southeastern Georgia by botanists John and William Bartram. The tree has been extinct in the wild since 1803. All franklinia trees are descendants from seedling propagated by the Bartrams in their Philadelphia, PA garden. Franklinia belongs to the tea family (Theaceae) and is closely related to Camellia, Stewartia and Gordonia (loblolly bay). The tree was named to honor Benjamin Franklin.

The tree’s most striking feature is its showy 2 – 3 inch pure white flowers with clusters of golden yellow stamens in the centers. Franklinia’s camellia-like flowers appear from late summer until frost. The blooms are sweetly-fragrant upclose.  Narrow, oblong-obovate, glossy dark green 3-5 inch long leaves turn several shades of orange, red and purple thru the autumn season. Branching is upright and spreading to create an open airy appearance. Ridged grey bark with prominent vertical white striations adds slight winter interest.

Franklinia grows best grown in humus rich, medium moisture, moderately acidic (pH 5.0 - 6.2) and well-drained soils and in full sun (in North) to partial shade (in Southeast). Franklinia prefers sites similar to azaleas and rhododendrons.

Fertilize in early spring with an acidic based soluble fertilizer such as Miracle Gro®, Miracid®, or Hollytone®. Franklinia also favors an annual feeding of Epsom salts (magnesium sulfate) @ 1 Tablespoon per gallon of water per tree.

Franklinia is valued as a specimen or a collector’s tree. Wilt and soil root rot (Phythoptera) are the serious problems. Proper siting of this unique tree is absolutely crucial. It is notoriously finicky to transplant because of its sparse fibrous root system.