The Gordon Plant, botanically known as Franklinia alatamaha, is a distinctive deciduous tree or large shrub. Prized for its elegant late-season flowers and vibrant fall foliage, it also holds a significant place in botanical history due to its rarity and compelling story of survival through cultivation.
Understanding the Gordon Plant
The Gordon Plant’s scientific name, Franklinia alatamaha, honors Benjamin Franklin and the Altamaha River in Georgia, its sole native habitat. This deciduous plant typically grows as a single-trunk tree or a multi-stemmed shrub, reaching 10 to 20 feet tall with a 6 to 15-foot spread. Its glossy, dark green leaves, up to 7 inches long, transform into brilliant shades of orange, red, and purple in autumn.
A defining feature of the Franklinia is its late-season bloom, producing fragrant, white, camellia-like flowers, about 3 inches in diameter, from late summer into early fall. Each flower showcases a prominent boss of bright yellow stamens at its center. Discovered in 1765 by botanists John and William Bartram along the Altamaha River, the plant has been extinct in the wild since 1803. All existing plants descend from seeds collected by the Bartrams, highlighting its exceptional rarity.
Cultivating the Gordon Plant
Site Selection and Soil Preparation
Cultivating the Gordon Plant requires careful site selection and proper soil preparation. It thrives in full sun to partial shade, benefiting from afternoon shade in hotter climates to protect its foliage. Optimal growth depends on organically rich, well-drained, and acidic soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 6.5. Amending the soil with organic matter like compost or leaf mold improves drainage and acidity. If native soil is heavy clay, consider planting in raised beds due to the plant’s intolerance of poor drainage.
Watering and Feeding
Consistent moisture is important for the Gordon Plant, especially during establishment. The soil should remain moist but never waterlogged, as excessive moisture can lead to root issues. During dry periods, deep watering every 5-7 days helps maintain adequate soil moisture. Applying a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base conserves soil moisture, regulates soil temperature, and suppresses weeds. Fertilize lightly and balanced in early spring if nutrient deficiencies are suspected. Avoid over-fertilizing, as the plant generally prefers a less rich nutrient profile once established.
Pruning and Winter Protection
The Gordon Plant typically requires minimal pruning, primarily for shaping or removing dead, diseased, or crossing branches. Pruning is best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth emerges. Leaving lower limbs intact promotes a natural, open form and helps prevent disease. For winter protection in colder zones (USDA Zone 5), mulch heavily around the base to insulate roots. In regions with extreme cold, protective covers may be necessary.
Addressing Common Growing Challenges
The Gordon Plant can present specific growing challenges. Its most significant vulnerability is susceptibility to root rot, often caused by overly wet or poorly drained soil conditions, and exacerbated by fungal pathogens like Phytophthora cinnamomi. The plant is also sensitive to transplant shock and can be difficult to establish due to a sparsely fibrous root system. High soil pH can also lead to nutrient deficiencies, causing leaves to yellow.
Troubleshooting these issues involves reinforcing proper cultural practices. Ensuring excellent drainage is paramount; if your soil is heavy, amend it thoroughly or consider planting in a raised bed to prevent water accumulation around the roots. Precise watering techniques, avoiding both drought and waterlogging, are important for preventing root rot. Selecting an appropriate planting site that meets its specific light and soil pH needs contributes to overall plant vigor. If severe symptoms persist, consult a local horticultural extension service for specialized guidance.