Platanus x acerifolia - London Plain Tree

Platanus x acerifolia, commonly known as the London Plane Tree, is a large, fast-growing deciduous shade tree celebrated for its impressive stature and distinctive exfoliating bark. This hybrid, combining traits from Platanus orientalis and Platanus occidentalis, is a top choice for streetscapes, parklands, and expansive estates where size, longevity, and resilience are essential.

Growing up to 30–35 meters tall with a spread of 20–25 meters, it features a broad canopy that starts pyramidal in youth and matures into a wide, rounded crown. Its large, lobed green leaves create dense summer shade and provide a seasonal display with autumn leaf drop. The bark is especially striking, peeling to reveal a mottled pattern of creamy white, olive, and grey tones that adds year-round visual interest.

Thriving in full sun, the London Plane tolerates pollution, compacted soils, and various soil types, making it ideal for urban settings and high-traffic areas. While moderately drought-tolerant once established, it benefits from deep watering and occasional pruning to maintain its form and manage size.

Perfect for avenue planting, public parks, and large-scale landscaping, this tree combines functionality with striking aesthetics and dependable performance.

Please note, as living products, our trees naturally vary in size and appearance throughout the seasons. The photos on our website are provided as a helpful guide, but may not always reflect our current batches. We always aim to deliver stock as pictured, but some variation is to be expected. For up-to-date sizing, please refer to our current height guide. If you’d like to see photos of our current stock, just let us know—we’re happy to send them!