Boyd Nursery Ben Franklin Tree
Best robust tree for enhancing home garden aesthetics.
A truly unique ornamental, the Ben Franklin Tree offers fragrant summer blooms and spectacular fall color, but its true allure lies in its rarity as a species extinct in the wild. While it demands consistent moisture and is susceptible to diseases, its historical significance and aesthetic appeal make it a prized specimen for dedicated gardeners.
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking unique late-season blooms and extended visual interest
- Homeowners desiring striking seasonal color and curb appeal
- Plant collectors and conservation-minded individuals appreciating botanical history
Who should skip it
- Gardeners with heavy clay soil or inconsistent watering habits
- Individuals in areas with poor drainage or prone to overwatering
- Gardeners seeking rapid landscape establishment or quick results
Key Specs
Classification
Native
Diseases & Insects
No known pests, but is susceptible to a root-rot disease; not drought tolerant; highly susceptible to fungal diseases; NEVER plant where cotton was previously grown
Family
Theaceae
Flowers
perfect, white, 5-petaled, fragrant flowers that are borne sporadically from late July into August (and weakly into September)
Growth Rate
Slow
Hardiness Range
zone 5a – 8b
Leaves
leaves are 5 to 6 inches long of a deep glossy green turning shades of red to purple in the fall
Plant Type
deciduous
Primary Features
fall color, spring flower
Size
15-20 feet tall at maturity with 10-15 foot spread
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Ask Metto anything about the Boyd Nursery Ben Franklin Tree before you decide.