About
A bulbous perennial with a solitary, nodding, bell-shaped flower with chequered or plain, purple-pink or greenish tepals borne on a short stem among narrow, mid-green leaves in spring. A delicate and choice bulb for well-drained, rich soil in a sunny border, rock garden, or bulb frame.
About the genus
Franklinia includes herbaceous and sometimes woody species grown for their ornamental merit. The genus is represented in gardens by selected species and cultivars suited to a range of growing conditions
Growing conditions
SunlightFull sun, Partial shade
Soil typeLoam, Sand
Soil pHAcid, Neutral
Soil moistureMoist but well-drained
AspectSouth-facing, West-facing
ExposureSheltered
UK hardinessH5
Plant details
Plant typeTrees
HabitBushy
FoliageDeciduous
Height2.5-4 metres
Spread2.5-4 metres
Time to full height10-20 years
Suggested usesCottage and informal garden, City and courtyard gardens, Coastal, Mediterranean climate plants
Native toGeorgia (USA)
FragranceFlower
Care notes
CultivationCan be challenging to grow. Best grown in rich, moist, well-drained soils in full sun to part shade. Intolerant of root disturbance once established as well as drought
PruningRequires minimal pruning, only removing wayward, crossing or rubbing shoots in winter when dormant
PropagationPropagate by seed as soon as ripe at 10-18C (50-64F). Root hardwood cuttings in winter or softwood cuttings in summer with bottom heat
Pest resistanceGenerally pest-free
Disease resistanceSusceptible to Phytophthora root rot