A large, robust shade tree with broad maple-like leaves and striking flaking cream-and-grey camouflage bark. Famously tolerant of pollution, pruning and tough urban conditions.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 25 m H × 15 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About London Plane
Botanically, Platanus ×acerifolia is a fast-growing tree in the Platanaceae family. It reaches around 25 m tall and 15 m wide at maturity, with deciduous and rich in autumn colour foliage.
Where to grow London Plane
London Plane suits cool-temperate, warm-temperate and Mediterranean climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
London Plane does best in loamy, clay and free-draining soil. Dig in plenty of compost before planting, water in well, and mulch to keep roots cool.
Watering & feeding
London Plane does best with regular, moderate watering. Refresh mulch and provide a modest balanced feed at the start of spring. During the first growing season, water deeply whenever the upper soil begins to dry, then reduce the frequency as roots establish.
Pruning & care
Tip-prune London Plane in spring to maintain a dense, shapely habit. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using London Plane in the garden
London Plane earns its place for a shade tree, a feature or specimen planting and a windbreak.
Companion planting & design
Combine London Plane with plants that share its preference for regular, moderate watering and cool-temperate climate. Use an odd-numbered group where space allows, or repeat it at intervals through a longer bed.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying London Plane
Plant Sale lists London Plane as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Current stock is confirmed manually, so register interest above before planning around a specific size.
