Trees, Shrubs and Conifers: Gordlinia, 4 by Weerobin

Weerobin wrote:
So I've lusted after franklinia for a hundred years.
I had one plant live long enough to eke out a bloom, then promptly swoon a minute later.
I've killed dozens others in my attempt to get one to grow here.
So a couple years ago, they came out with 'x gordlinia grandiflora',
an intergeneric cross between franklinia and gordlinia.
So of course, I bought a couple.
They have languished in pots, since I'm nervous about proper siting,
having killed so many of their kin over the years.
At any rate, imagine my surprise today, when I arrived home to see this gorgeous bloom.
It's on a scrawny potted 2-year old plant.
Fall color has been variable, but sometimes remarkable.
Now of course, I'm eager to plant one out to see if they are less finicky than either parent.