Oct 10, 2017
Plant of the Day
Tuesday 10 October 2017
This rare deciduous small tree or large shrub, Franklinia alatamaha (Franklin tree) can sadly no longer be found in the wild. It is the only species in this (monotypic) genus with dark green, glossy leaves that turn bright crimson in the autumn while the fragrant white flowers appear. It has been described as “challenging to grow” needing a rich, moist, well-drained soil in full sun to part shade and disliking root disturbance or drought once established. This beautiful plant was flowering at the Royal Horticultural Society Garden Wisley, Surrey, UK, where I was fortunate to be meeting the new group of Master of Horticulture (MHort) students and the second years.
Jill Raggett
