January 23, 2007
Tree Lovers: Time for Franklinia Mania
Bartram’s Garden is a 45-acre arboreal oasis in the badlands of South West Philadelphia. John Bartram and his son William dedicated their lives to collecting and preserving all manner of natural specimens, which continue to flourish on these grounds and elsewhere. Notably, the franklinia alatamaha, named after who else but Mr. Bartram’s (and our) buddy Ben Franklin. This obscure beauty, discovered in Georgia in 1765, was saved from extinction by the father and son team. All franklinia trees now in existence are direct descendents from seeds cultivated by these dudes. There was a census taken in 1998 accounting for 2,000 of these rare trees in 38 states and 8 foreign countries. I can think of two in Philly: one here, and another at Franklin Square.
Bartram’s Garden
54th St. and Lindbergh Blvd.,
Philadelphia, PA 19143
215-729-5281
(3 responses)
January 23, 2007, 11:24 am
Caroline says:
i think Longwood Gardens has it too…
January 23, 2007, 11:24 am
Daddy Sherpa says:
Yay Franklinia!
There’s a real grand one on the SE corner of 42nd & Pine! Independence NHP also has three: one behind Congress Hall, one in Washington Square, and I forget the third. We just planted them.
January 23, 2007, 11:24 am
Jeanene says:
Hi Daddy Sherpa! I was wondering if the Franklinia trees are still present in the areas that you mentioned? We are creating a scavenger hunt and would like to feature them; particularly the ones at Independence NHP, Congress Hall & Washington Square. Would you please contact me? I would appreciate your input. Thank you!
- Jeanene
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