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Description
Franklinia, also known as Franklin tree or Franklinia alatamaha, is a deciduous flowering plant native to the southeastern United States. It was first discovered in the late 18th century along the Altamaha River in Georgia by botanists John and William Bartram. The plant was named in honor of Benjamin Franklin, a fellow botanist and friend of the Bartrams.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Angiosperms |
| Class | Eudicots |
| Order | Ericales |
| Family | Theaceae |
| Genus | Franklinia |
Appearance
The Franklinia plant grows up to 20 feet tall and 15 feet wide. It has a pyramidal shape with a single trunk and a broad, rounded crown. The leaves are dark green, glossy, and ovate, with serrated edges. In the fall, the leaves turn a beautiful shade of orange-red.The Franklinia blooms in late summer, with white, fragrant flowers that have yellow centers. The flowers are large, showy, and have a waxy texture. They grow up to 3 inches in diameter and last for several weeks.
Care Guide
Water
The Franklinia plant requires moderate watering, especially during hot and dry periods. It prefers well-draining soil that is moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant deeply once a week, or more frequently during periods of drought.
Fertilization
Fertilize the plant in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can damage the plant.
Soil
The Franklinia plant prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a range of soil types, including sandy and clay soils. However, it does not do well in waterlogged or compacted soil.
Sunlight
The Franklinia plant prefers partial shade to full sun. It can tolerate some shade, but too much shade can reduce flower production.
Hardiness Zones
The Franklinia plant is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Franklinia plant is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is waterlogged or poorly drained. It can also be affected by powdery mildew, which can be treated with a fungicide.
Habitat
The Franklinia plant is native to the southeastern United States, where it grows in moist, well-draining soil along riverbanks and in woodland areas. It is a rare plant in the wild, and is considered endangered in its natural habitat.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Franklinia plant be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Franklinia plant can be grown in containers. However, it requires a large pot and well-draining soil.
Q: When is the best time to prune the Franklinia plant?
A: The best time to prune the Franklinia plant is in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and shape the plant as desired.
Q: Does the Franklinia plant attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the Franklinia plant attracts bees, butterflies, and other pollinators with its fragrant flowers.
Q: Can the Franklinia plant be propagated from cuttings?
A: Yes, the Franklinia plant can be propagated from softwood cuttings taken in early summer. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-draining soil. Keep the soil moist and provide partial shade until the cuttings are established.
Related Plants
- Camellia
- Tea plant
- Stewartia
- Tsubaki
References
- “Franklinia alatamaha.” Missouri Botanical Garden. http://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277051
- “Franklinia.” Clemson Cooperative Extension. https://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheet/franklinia/
- “Franklinia alatamaha.” The Nature Conservancy. https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/critical-species/franklin-tree/
