Franklinia alatamaha

Franklinia alatamaha is a beautiful, very rare small tree with eye-catching flowers which is native to the USA and was first found by westerners growing on the banks of the Altamaha River in Georgia.

Franklinia alatamaha has spectacular camellia-like, sweetly fragrant, large white flowers (to 6 cm in diameter) with centers of bushy, bright yellow stamens from late summer to early autumn. The leaves are long, narrow and dark green, turning excellent shades of orange, red and purple in autumn before falling.

An exquisite choice of tree for a warm, sheltered garden!

• Position: Sheltered in full sun or partial shade.
• Soil: Well drained, fertile soil. Franklinia alatamaha will not grow well in wet soils with poor drainage.
• Hardiness: Frost Hardy. To grow outside in the U.K., Franklinia alatamaha requires a warm, sheltered garden, a position away from cold winter winds and protection in severe winters or from late spring frosts.
• Flowering Period: July - August.
• Flower Colour: White with yellow stamen
• Rate of Growth: Slow to moderate.
• Habit: Eventually a small tree with a rounded habit once established.
  • Height: up to 6 m (20 ft).
  • Spread: 5 m (16 ft).

• Notes: Franklinia alatamaha is a tricky plant to grow well in the U.K. and is best attempted by experienced gardeners who are prepared to protect it from late spring frosts.

• Please be aware that Franklinia alatamaha can be a fickle and difficult plant in the winter, if caught by frost or if planted in a poor position. As such, it is not covered by our guarantee.