Hybrid Ben Franklin Tree (Schimlinia) – 3 Gallon Pot

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x Schimlinia floribunda is an exciting recent bigeneric hybrid produced by Tom Ranney at NC State University. It is a cross between a rare evergreen Chinese camellia relative, Schima argentea, and the North American native Franklinia altamaha (Ben Franklin Tree). We’re not exactly sure of the common name of this plant as different sources call it various names, so we are calling it Hybrid Ben Franklin Tree. A couple of other sources call it Shima Lina Ding Dong, which we think is amusing, haha…but not truly representative of the beauty of this tree. It flourishes in high heat and humidity but also handles the cold to USDA Zone 5a, where low winter temperatures can be -20F. We know it’s a fast grower but aren’t sure of the actual mature height. Based on our experience thus far with the tree, we think it might reach 20 to 30 feet tall, depending on location, climate, and various environmental factors. It forms an oval canopy clothed in long, lush, dark green leaves that turn to lovely shades of red and orange in fall. During summer, it produces abundant clusters of very pretty, 3-4″ diameter, fragrant white flowers adorned with a prominent cluster of yellow stamens at the center. It is easy to grow and will tolerate full sun in Zones 5-6, but it has performed best in our Zone 8 gardens with some filtered sun or shade during the midafternoon hours. It has demonstrated moderate drought tolerance in the landscape once established, though, during periods of extended summer drought, it might appreciate some supplemental water. It is a beautiful specimen in the woodland border or around the home, where its fragrant flowers can be enjoyed up close. A must-have for rare plant collectors!

Schimlinia grows best in an acidic to neutral, consistently moist but well-drained soil rich in organic matter and in full sun (USDA Zones 5-6) to part shade (USDA Zones 7-8), where it will appreciate some filtered sun or shade during the midafternoon hours when the sun is most intense. We suggest 4 hours or more of direct sunlight daily for best performance. Though drought tolerant when established, we suggest moist soil when young and supplemental water for established trees during prolonged periods of summer drought. Avoid planting in poorly drained soils that stay constantly soggy or wet.