London Plane: The Great Avenue Tree with Mottled Bark
Trees

London Plane: The Great Avenue Tree with Mottled Bark

Platanus × acerifolia

Growing London plane: large avenue tree with mottled flaking bark and broad crown. Full sun, deep fresh soil, ideal for urban shade and streets.

Characteristics

Scientific namePlatanus × acerifolia
Height25-40 m
Sunlightpieno sole
Watermedia
Soilfresco profondo
Toxicitynon tossica
Growthveloce
Temperature-20 a 38 °C
FloweringApr, May
IrrigationWater in summer for the first years after planting; mature trees are very tough and almost self-sufficient.

The London plane (Platanus × acerifolia) is a large avenue tree with unmistakable bark that flakes off in patches and a broad, shady crown. It grows fast in full sun on fresh, deep soil, tolerating pollution and hard pruning well. Ideal for shading streets and city squares.

Flowering season

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Practical tips

Watering

Water needs: media — always check soil moisture before watering.

Position

Prefers pieno sole: provide the right light and rotate the plant for even growth.

Substrate

Recommended soil: fresco profondo. Refresh the substrate every 1-2 years.

Leaves

Dust the leaves with a damp cloth to support photosynthesis.

Feeding

Feed during the growing season (spring-summer) and stop in winter.

FAQ

Why does the plane tree shed its bark in patches?
It is entirely normal: the rigid bark flakes off in plates, revealing lighter layers beneath. This exfoliation helps the tree shed accumulated pollutants from its trunk.
Is the London plane suitable for private gardens?
Rarely: it reaches 25-40 m with wide, invasive roots. It is designed for avenues, parks and large public spaces, not for ordinary-sized gardens.

You may also like