Platanus × acerifolia
London Planetree

 Plant Type:
 Growth Forms:
 Hardiness:
 Deciduous / Evergreen:
 Flower Notes:
Brown (Spring; not ornamentally important)
 Foliage Notes:
Green (Medium to dark green summer foliage); Yellow (Yellow-brown fall foliage)
 Fruit Notes:
Brown (Large (1" dia.) globose fruits in pairs)
 Ultimate Height:
70-100 feet
 Ultimate Spread:
65-80 feet
 Light Requirements:
 Soil Notes:
Prefers deep, rich, moist soils, but is adaptable
 Range:
Hybrid origin
 Diagnostic Characteristics:
Leaves (6-7" long by 8-10" wide) are alternate and simple with 3-5 deep, rarely toothed lobes and 2-4" long petioles. Terminal buds absent, lateral buds have one scale. Fruits are 1" dia., round, globular, bristly clusters of achenes, normally borne in 2s (unlike P. occidentalis, which bears single fruits). Handsome, exfoliating bark of mottled greens, tans, and creamy-whites.

Additional Information

Platanus x acerifolia is quite similar to P. occidentalis, but was originally advertised as being much more pest resistant. P. x acerifolia was quickly overplanted, and it is clear that pest resistance varies among hybrids, and can be quite poor. Pests that can severely affect this species include sycamore anthracnose, cankerstain, Botryosphaeria canker, leaf spot, powdery mildew, sycamore lace bug, and American plum borer. One of the largest of shade trees, making massive, majestic specimens. The mottled, multi-colored, exfoliating bark is very beautiful and makes for excellent winter interest. Needs a large volume of soil space. Leaves, twigs, bark, and fruit contribute to a significant litter problem. Although this species can tolerate urban conditions, it is generally not advisable to use as a street tree, due to the continuous litter produced and large space required.

43 Platanus × acerifolia found

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Other plants like this Platanus × acerifolia (London Planetree)

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