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Franklinia alatamaha

Franklin Tree

Fragrant Scent Hardiness H5

Large fragrant white flowers with golden centres appear from late summer into autumn on Franklinia alatamaha, followed by brilliant red and orange foliage. This rare deciduous tree needs acidic soil, excellent drainage and a warm sheltered position, making it a choice for experienced gardeners.

SKU: FRAN-5-Y

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Plant Details

Size

Max Height
2.5 m — 4.0 m
Max Spread
2.5 m — 4.0 m
Growth Habit
Densely branched plant with compact, leafy, rounded overall shape.

Planting Position

Sunlight Indicates how much direct sunlight the plant needs each day. Full sun means 6+ hours, part shade is filtered or morning sun, and full shade is little to no direct sun.
Full Sun Part Shade
Aspect Aspect refers to the direction the planting spot faces (north, south, east or west). It affects light levels, warmth and exposure.
South West
Exposure Exposure describes how sheltered or exposed a plant’s position is, particularly to wind and weather.
Sheltered
Hardiness Hardiness indicates how well a plant tolerates cold conditions outdoors. Higher ratings generally mean greater frost tolerance.
Hardiness H5 (−15 to −10 °C) Cold-hardy

Ideal Soil Conditions

Soil Type Soil type describes the texture of the soil (clay, sand, loam, chalk). This affects drainage, nutrients and how roots grow.
Loam Sand
Soil Moisture Soil moisture tells you how wet or dry the soil should be for best growth. Match this to your garden conditions for healthier plants.
Moist but permeable
Soil pH Soil pH measures how acidic or alkaline the soil is. It affects nutrient availability and can impact plant growth.
Acid Neutral

Plant Uses & Merits

Uses
  • Patios / Courtyards
  • Coastal Areas
  • Flower Borders
  • Against Wall
Merits
  • Fragrant
  • Generally pest-free

Franklinia alatamaha Description

Franklinia alatamaha is a rare deciduous shrub or small tree related to camellias and stewartias. Cup-shaped white flowers with prominent golden stamens open from late summer into autumn, often while the glossy green leaves are beginning to turn scarlet, orange and purple. Mature plants generally reach around 3 to 6 metres, developing an upright, open crown. Grow in full sun or light partial shade in fertile, humus-rich, acidic soil that remains moist but drains exceptionally well. It dislikes lime, compacted ground, root disturbance and stagnant winter moisture. In Ireland, choose a warm position sheltered from cold wind and late frost. Mulch with leaf mould or composted bark and water with rainwater where tap water is strongly alkaline. Little pruning is required.