Franklinia Franklin Tree

Light Needs

Full Sun

(6+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

10-15 Feet

Mature Spread

6-9 Feet

Growing Zones

6 to 8

The Franklinia, Franklin Tree, or Franklinia Alatamaha is a rare, but stylish deciduous tree that is prized for its flashy, brilliant-white, early fall flowers and striking autumn-flair foliage in the fall. It is a stunning, unique, partial-shade tree that grows to be 10 to 20 feet tall and 6 to 15 feet wide. The leaves of the Franklinia are glossy-green and oblong, and in autumn, they transform into a canopy of scarlet red, deep orange, and vivid yellow. The charming flowers of the Franklinia bloom from mid-summer to late-fall and are fragrant, five-petaled and creamy white, accented with fuzzy, bright-yellow stamens. 

The Franklinia Tree was once native to the banks of the Altamaha River, in Georgia, but no longer grows in the wild. These rare and unusually beautiful trees have historical significance because they were saved from extinction by early colonial settlers, and named after founding father, Benjamin Franklin. Once established, Franklinia trees are low-maintenance and pest resistant. They are also deer and critter resistant. They are ornamental trees typically grown for their fragrant flowers and colorful foliage. Franklin Trees are versatile and loved by birds for nesting and cover.

Franklinia Franklin Tree Care

Franklinia Trees like moist, well-drained, rich and acidic soils. They have average, moderate water needs. You should plant your Franklinia in an area with full or partial sun to maximize flower production. It can be propagated by seeds or by cuttings taken in late summer or fall. After planting, maintain a constant moist soil until the tree is established. Apply 2 to 3 inches of mulch to protect and shelter your newly planted Franklinia until it reaches maturity. Fertilize your Franklinia Trees annually with a light rate of compost or balanced fertilizer.

Franklinia Trees require very little pruning. Only the wayward crossing shoots need to be removed. This should be done in the winter when the tree is dormant, or in the early spring before new growth begins.

Franklinia Franklin Tree Spacing

Franklin trees are small and upright so they can be planted in many places. They are especially beautiful in woodsy, natural gardens, flower beds, borders, and even next to walls. They work well in small and compact landscapes of all types and should be spaced at least 15 feet apart.

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