Franklinia alatamaha |
Syn. Gordonia alatamaha
Native Region: Eastern North America
Zone Range: 5-9
Preferred Climate: Full to semi sun; well draining humus rich evenly moist soils
Harvest Date: Wednesday 03 October, 2012
Seed count: 10-12
Description:
Unique of the rarities. Gorgeous sweetly scented large camellia/stewartia like blooms adorn new growth in small bunches for continous month(s) long bloom. The longer your growing season, the longer the flowering time. We're still learning more about this amazing species from our plants. So far, they seem to love growing in their own 5 gallon pot. They've grown so big, so fast, they no longer fit in our greenhouse so this is their first winter outside. Large tropical leaves that turn a reddish bronze. Reaches 10 m in height with a 8 m spread. PROTECT FROM DEER
Notes:
We planted out 2 year old seedlings (grown in 5 gallon deep pots) and they doubled their size in their garden spot of half day of full sun with very little care. Amazing. Out performed nursery bought plants. These kids could be blooming in 3-5 years.
Cultivation:
Surprisingly easy. Soak seed 24-48 hours. Baggie sow (see our article 'baggie sowing') in resealble ziplock with moist medium of finely milled peat & perlite or coarse sand/prepared coconut coir (no more than a few tbsp's worth). Cold stratify for 3-4 weeks in the fridge. After cold stratification period is over place the baggie in a warm location (20-24C). Needs light to germinate. Germinates in 5-30 days. When you see roots prick out and transplant into a pot containing new well draining moist (not wet) medium. We prefer 15cm square pots placed in large ziplock baggies to retain humidity. Does very well under lights. Keep warm. Open bag ever so often to increase hardiness so in the time and the bag can be kept open. Don't let dry out and don't over water. Transplant soil should be same temp as germination (baggie) medium. Not tolerant of being chilled. Woody seed capsule might clamp onto seed leaves...don't try to remove this as the seedling will naturally shed this (like me pulling off my rubber boots at the end of the day...not pretty but undamaged)
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