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Platanus × hispanica
  • RHS AGM

London plane

P. x hispanica is a magnificent, large deciduous tree with beautiful flaking grey and cream bark. Leaves maple-like, palmately lobed, to 20cm in width. Inconspicuous flowers are followed by clustered, burr-like fruits

Other common names
maple-leaved plane
Synonyms
Platanus × acerifolia
Platanus × hybrida
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Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metres
Time to ultimate height
20–50 years
Ultimate spread
Wider than 8 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Green
Summer Green
Autumn Green Green
Winter Brown
Position
  • Full sun
Aspect

South–facing or West–facing or East–facing or North–facing

Exposure
Exposed or Sheltered
Hardiness
H6
Botanical details
Family
Platanaceae
Native to the UK
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Platanus are vigorous, large deciduous trees of stately appearance, with maple-like foliage and attractively patterned bark

Name status

Correct

How to grow

Cultivation

Easy to grow in moist, humus-rich, fertile soils but avoid planting in the vacinity of buildings due to vigorous root system

Propagation

Propagate from hardwood cuttings in winter or suckers in autumn or late winter

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Coastal
  • City and courtyard gardens
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to lace bugs

Diseases

May be susceptible to plane anthracnose and honey fungus

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