Quick answer: Franklin tree (Franklinia alatamaha) is native to 1 state. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Derek Ramsey, Wikimedia Commons (CC-BY-SA-2.5)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade (best flowering/fall color in full sun) |
|---|---|
| Water | High |
| Soil | Moist, acidic, well-drained, low lime tolerance |
| Bloom | Jun-Oct (showiest in Sep) |
| Height | 10-20 ft |
| Wildlife value | Conspicuous flowers |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 16 Sep 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 16 Sep 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Franklin tree
Where is Franklin tree native?
Franklin tree (Franklinia alatamaha) is native to Georgia. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Franklin tree bloom?
Franklin tree blooms Jun-Oct (showiest in Sep). Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Franklin tree need?
Light: Part Shade (best flowering/fall color in full sun). Water: High. Soil: Moist, acidic, well-drained, low lime tolerance. Mature height: 10-20 ft.
Is Franklin tree good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Conspicuous flowers.
Where can I buy Franklin tree?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 16 Sep 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Franklinia alatamaha by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Franklin tree.
- Florida anisetree Illicium floridanum
- Saw palmetto Serenoa repens
- Dwarf fothergilla Fothergilla gardenii
- Orange azalea Rhododendron austrinum
- Dwarf palmetto Sabal minor
- Fevertree Pinckneya bracteata
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