Franklin Tree (Franklinia alatamaha)

Franklin Tree – Extinct in the Wild, Camellia-Like Flowers

Franklinia alatamaha, the Franklin Tree, is a small deciduous tree discovered in Georgia in 1765 by John Bartram and extinct in the wild since the early 1800s. All cultivated plants descend from Bartram's collections. It produces exquisite, camellia-like, white flowers with yellow centers in late summer to fall, when few trees bloom. The leaves turn vibrant orange-red. It requires moist, acidic, well-drained soil and is difficult to establish. A prized specimen for collectors.

Taxonomic Details