London plane
Also known as
London plane tree, London planetree, Common plane, Hybrid plane, European plane
Keep this plant’s care guide close at hand.
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Platanus × hispanica, the London plane, is a vigorous, long-lived deciduous shade tree widely planted in cities for its exceptional tolerance of pollution, soil compaction, pruning, and drought. A natural hybrid of Platanus orientalis and P. occidentalis, it typically reaches 20–35 m tall with a broad, domed crown. Distinctive mottled bark exfoliates in plates to reveal green, cream, and gray patches. Large, maple-like leaves with five lobes cast dense shade, and pendant spherical seed clusters often persist into winter. Growth is fast when young, slowing with maturity. It thrives in deep, moist, well-drained loams yet adapts to a wide soil pH, including alkaline urban fill. While generally resilient, it can show anthracnose in cool, wet springs and is vulnerable to canker stain (Ceratocystis platani) in some regions. Fine leaf hairs and dust on foliage may irritate sensitive individuals during pruning or cleanup. Its durability, handsome bark, and expansive canopy make it an outstanding street and park tree where space allows.
Taxonomy
Properties & Requirements
How to care for London plane
Water
At planting, water thoroughly to settle soil. During the first two years, irrigate deeply once weekly in dry spells, delivering 20–40 liters per centimeter of trunk diameter per week, or roughly 25–50 mm across the root zone. Let the upper 5–10 cm of soil dry between soakings. Once established, the tree is moderately drought tolerant; switch to occasional deep irrigation only during prolonged heat or drought. Avoid frequent, shallow watering and standing water, which promote surface rooting and disease.
Light
Provide full sun for best form and disease resistance—aim for 6–8+ hours of direct light daily. London plane tolerates light shade but may develop a thinner canopy and more anthracnose in cool, shaded sites. It endures urban conditions, including reflected light and intermittent building shade, and has good wind tolerance. Maintain open exposure with ample overhead space; avoid tight courtyards or planting under utility lines, as mature trees are large and need unimpeded sky.
Nutrients
Established London planes seldom need fertilizer if mulched and growing in reasonable soil. Prioritize organic matter: apply a 5–8 cm mulch of composted bark or leaves annually, keeping it off the trunk. If growth is weak or a soil test shows deficiency, broadcast a slow-release, low-salt balanced fertilizer (e.g., 8-2-6 or 10-10-10) over the root zone in early spring at label rates. Avoid high-nitrogen applications late summer, which stimulate tender growth and can increase susceptibility to anthracnose.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–9, London plane tolerates winter lows near −28 °C (−18 °F) once established. It performs best in temperate climates with cool to warm summers and withstands urban heat, wind, and pollution. In very hot, arid regions, supplemental irrigation and mulch help mitigate heat stress. Avoid planting where persistent waterlogging or reflected heat from hardscapes elevates root-zone temperatures. Young trees benefit from shelter their first winter; established specimens are reliably frost hardy.
