Franklinia

-alatamaha

The Franklinia is a rare commodity.  First discovered in 1765 in Georgia along the Alatamaha River by John and William Bartram of Philadelphia, it was named for Benjamin Franklin, a family friend.  While close to extinction, the Franklinia was saved by the Bartrams, yet it is still very difficult to find.  All Franklinia plants come from the one plant that was found by the Bartrams.  A Franklinia is either a small tree or shrub, often without leaves at the bottom of the plant, giving it an open, airy appearance.  The large leaves are dark green in the summer, changing to orange and red in the fall.  The 3" fragrant flowers are white with yellow stamens, appearing in late July through September. 

Bloom Time:  Late Summer.

Growth Habit:  Tree-like, 10' - 20' in height, 6' - 15' in width.

Foliage:  Dark green, changing to orange and red in the fall.

Sun/Shade:  Sun, Partial Shade, Flowers best in full sun.