Franklin Tree

A true botanical treasure and one of the rarest specimens in the world, the Franklin Tree is a deciduous large shrub or small tree. Its greatest glory is its late-season performance; in late Summer and Autumn, it can produce exquisite, cup-shaped white flowers with a central boss of golden-yellow stamens, smelling faintly of orange blossoms. Uniquely, these snowy blooms often appear just as the glossy, dark green foliage begins its dramatic transformation into shades of fiery scarlet and deep burgundy. Named after Benjamin Franklin and extinct in the wild since the early 19th century, this tree adds a sense of history and "collector's status" to any garden. It is best suited as a focal point where its elegant structure and dual-interest autumn display can be fully appreciated. Needs a good warm summer to flower in Ireland.

Site: Requires shelter/wind protection
Soil: Rich, well-drained, acidic, highly organic soil
Position: Full sun to light dappled shade
Season of interest: Stunning camellia-like white flowers from August to October
Hardiness: Hardy to -10
Height: 15–20ft (4.5–6m) Spread: 10–15ft (3–4.5m)

Image 1, 3, 4 and 5 by Plant Image Library  cropped, and licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0
Image 2 by Wendy Cutler cropped, and licensed by CC BY-SA 2.0