Platanus x acerifolia

Common Name:
London Plane Tree

Description:
Platanus × acerifolia, commonly known as the London Plane Tree, is a large, deciduous tree widely valued for its resilience, fast growth, and ability to thrive in urban environments. It features large, maple-like green leaves that turn golden-yellow in autumn. One of its most distinctive features is its mottled, peeling bark, which reveals patches of cream, grey, and brown, adding year-round visual interest. In spring, inconspicuous flowers develop into round, spiky seed balls that persist into winter. This tree is highly tolerant of pollution, drought, and various soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for street planting, parks, and large landscapes where it provides excellent shade.

Form:

• Tree - Large

Mature Size:

• Height: 20–30 metres
• Width: 15–25 metres

Aspect:

• Full Sun

Flowering:

• Flowers in Spring (insignificant)

Flower Colour:

• Greenish (not showy)

Key Attributes:

• Shade Providing
• Tolerant of Urban Pollution
• Fast Growing
• Attractive Peeling Bark
• Drought Tolerant Once Established

Toxicity:

• Non-toxic to humans and pets, but fine hairs from leaves and seed balls may cause mild respiratory irritation in sensitive individuals

Companion Plants:

• Quercus species (Oak)
• Ulmus parvifolia (Chinese Elm)
• Liquidambar styraciflua (Sweetgum)
• Acer species (Maple)
• Lagerstroemia (Crepe Myrtle)