London plain - 2 inch

London Plane Tree (Platanus x acerifolia) 

Description:
London Plane Tree (Platanus x acerifolia) is a majestic, large deciduous tree renowned for its impressive size, resilience, and adaptability in urban and suburban landscapes. This hybrid of American Sycamore and Oriental Plane can reach heights of 70 to 100 feet or more, developing a broad, spreading canopy that offers abundant shade—making it a favorite for parks, city streets, and large gardens. Its exfoliating bark peels away in patches, revealing a beautiful mosaic of creamy white, olive, and brown, adding year-round visual interest. In spring, the tree produces clusters of globe-shaped, pendulous seed balls that persist into winter. The large, maple-like leaves are a vibrant green in summer, turning golden-yellow in autumn. London Plane is especially valued for its ability to thrive in polluted, compacted soils and challenging urban conditions, making it a top choice for city planners and landscape architects.

Plant Characteristics:

• Botanical Name: Platanus x acerifolia

• Common Name: London Plane Tree

• Type: Deciduous shade tree

• Mature Height: 70–100+ feet

• Mature Spread: 60–80 feet

• Growth Habit: Broad, spreading canopy; pyramidal when young

• Foliage: Large, dark green, maple-like leaves; golden-yellow fall color

• Bark: Exfoliating, multi-colored (creamy white, olive, brown)

• Flower/Fruit: Clusters of globe-shaped seed balls in spring, persisting through winter

• Light Requirements: Full sun

• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; tolerates compacted and polluted urban soils

• Water Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

• Hardiness Zones: USDA 4–9

• Maintenance: Low; prune to shape when young, remove lower branches as needed

• Resistances: Highly tolerant of pollution, urban stress, and compacted soils

• Uses: Shade tree, street tree, park tree, specimen tree, urban landscapes