Franklin tree - Franklinia alatamaha (Care, Characteristics, Distribution, Images)

Franklin tree

Franklinia alatamaha is a deciduous large shrub or small tree growing to 10 m tall, but commonly 4.5 to 8 m. It is prized for its lightly fragrant white flowers, similar to single white Camellia blossoms; the smell may remind some of orange blossoms or honeysuckle. It frequently suckers and can form several vertical trunks close to ground level. The bark is gray with vertical white striations and has a ridged texture. The alternate, obovate leaves are up to 15 cm in length and turn a bright orange-red in the fall.

Scientific classification

Species

Franklin tree (Franklinia alatamaha)

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Perennial

Lifespan

Tree, Shrub

Plant Type

Summer, Fall, Early winter

Bloom Time

3 m to 6 m

Plant Height

3 m to 4.5 m

Spread

Green, Red

Leaf Color

Green, Red, White

Stem Color

Deciduous

Leaf type

Summer

Growth Season

Slow

Growth Rate

Images of Franklin tree

Quickly Identify Franklin tree

Fragrant white flowers with cup-shaped petals and egg yolk yellow stamens, blooming in late summer.

Woody, round fruit capsule with five distinctive valves, persisting on tree through winter.

Glossy oblong leaves with serrated margins, turning vibrant red, orange, and purple in fall.

Distinctive trunk progression from smooth light grey bark to rugged darker bark with age.

Elegant small tree with single trunk, airy rounded crown, adaptable to smaller landscapes.

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Care Guide for Franklin tree

Every 3 weeks

Water

Full sun

Sunlight

Garden Soil

Soil Type

Water: Originating from humid North America, franklin tree thrives in consistently moist soil and is moderately drought-tolerant. Water every three weeks to maintain even moisture. This outdoor plant showcases stunning flowers during the growing season, benefiting from careful watering and avoiding dry periods.

Fertilize: Franklin tree benefits from balanced nutrient fertilizer during growing seasons, with high nitrogen in spring for foliage. Fertilize every 2-3 months, using recommended dosages. Nutritional needs vary; reduce in winter and follow labels for slow-release formulas to prevent over-fertilization, enhancing overall health.

Pruning: Franklin tree features fragrant, white flowers and appealing fall foliage. Prune in early spring, removing dead branches for health, while light shaping maintains its form. Avoid heavy pruning due to sensitivity. Regular maintenance enhances air circulation and reduces disease risk. Consult horticultural sources for more details.

Propagation: Franklin tree is a rare plant with fragrant, cup-shaped white flowers and glossy green leaves that turn red in fall. Propagate using semi-hardwood cuttings from healthy growth in the morning, treating with rooting hormone and placing in a humid, indirect light environment for optimal root development.

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