A hybrid plane tree with flaking patchwork bark, planted along the streets of London, New York, and Paris for its remarkable tolerance of urban pollution.
Where it grows
The London plane is a hybrid between the oriental plane (Platanus orientalis) and the American sycamore (Platanus occidentalis), believed to have arisen in 17th-century Spain or southern France. It is planted in temperate cities worldwide — most famously along the streets, squares, and embankments of London, where it tolerates clay soils, coal smoke, and root constriction.
How to recognise it
The unmistakable bark flakes in irregular patches of cream, olive, and ochre, exposing fresh pale plates beneath — an adaptation that helps the tree shed pollutants. The maple-like five-lobed leaves are large and pointed. Spherical pendant flower heads ripen into bristly seed balls that dangle on long stalks throughout winter.
Uses
Almost the entire purpose of the London plane is as a street and park tree. Few species combine its tolerance of compacted urban soils, drought, pollution, and heavy pruning. The wood, when figured, is sold as “lacewood” for decorative veneers.
Conservation
A fungal canker (Ceratocystis platani) is spreading from southern France and Italy and threatens the great plane avenues of the Canal du Midi and beyond.
Find more trees by letter
London Plane starts with L and ends with E. Browse other trees along the same letter.
Trees that contain a letter from "London Plane":