Franklinia alatamaha
Franklin tree
Notes:
Notoriously picky as to cultural conditions. Blooms in 6-7 years from seed. Pyramidal when young, rounded with age. Intolerant of clay. Permanent irrigation suggested, but also widely noted for susceptibility to root rot. Afternoon shade suggested in hot-summer climates.
Fragrance is delightfully complex, especially in the evening, including prominent note of lychee nuts.
The intergeneric hybrid ×Gordlinia grandiflora (of this species and Gordonia lasianthus, loblolly-bay) is said to attain 11' height in two growing seasons.
Sources: UFL, Sunset, Stoecklein, Missouri BG, UConn, Cal Poly, USDA, Druse, Dirr/Warren.
Tags:
acidic soil preferred
branches strong
coarse texture
compacted soil intolerant
difficult to grow
exposure:full sun
exposure:part shade
fall color notable
form:multi-trunked
form:shrub
form:trainable to single trunk
form:tree
fragrant flowers
full sun preferred
habit:columnar
habit:conical/pyramidal
habit:irregular
habit:rounded
litter:minimal
native:eastern North America
persistence:deciduous
pruning not required
resprouts notably
rich soil preferred
root disturbance intolerant
roots:coarse/few
roots:low damage potential
salt intolerant
sandy soil tolerant
showy bark
showy flowers
slow-growing
type:broadleaf
use:container
use:deck/patio
use:screen
use:specimen
water:regular
well-drained soil required
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