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London Plane

London Plane

London Plane

(London Planetree)                         

Platanus x Acerifolia

A hybrid cross between the North American native Sycamore and the Asian Planetree. Rarely planted in New Brunswick. Interesting peeling bark revealing a mottled effect of white, cream and green patches. Male and female flowers are on the same tree and are wind pollinated. The origins of this hybrid are disputed but it was found to have remarkable tolerance to urban pollution and root compaction. For these reasons, it became the urban street tree of choice especially during the Victorian period in London, England and beyond.

Additional information

Foliage

Deciduous

Locale

Native to Europe

Height

Large (60-100ft)

Width

Wide

Form

Broad, Pyramidal

Growth Rate

Fast

Longevity

Long (over 100 years)

Hardiness Zones *

5

Sun Exposure

Full Sun (over 6 hrs), Mostly Shade (slow growth), Partial Sun (4 to 6 hrs)

Soil Preferences *

Moist, Slightly Acidic, Well Draining

Soil Tolerances

Clay, Dry, Slightly Alkaline, Wet

Other Tolerances

Occasional Drought, Occasional Flooding, Road Salt, Urban Pollution

Ornamental Interest

Bark, Seeds

Wildlife Value

Birds (fruits/seeds), Small Mammals (fruits/seeds)

Human Value

Carpentry (wood)

Seed Collection

Relatives in UK

Planting Considerations

Casts Deep Shade, Messy Leaf Litter