Franklin Tree
Franklinia alatamaha
The Franklin Tree, named for Benjamin Franklin, has an iconic story. It is now extinct in the wild, so this beautiful tree lives on only in cultivated landscapes. In the 1700’s, early American botanist John Bartram, and his son William, discovered this small, striking tree along the banks of the Altamaha River in Georgia. Every tree in existence today has descended from these collections. It boasts large, delicate white flowers and brilliant red, orange, and burgundy fall color. Bring home a piece of Philadelphia history with this storied species.
Conditions: Full sun to part shade; average soil
Size: 10′ – 20′ tall, 10′ – 15′ spread
Zone: 5 – 8
Wildlife Value: Flowers attract various pollinators, especially bumblebees and swallowtails
