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 |
