London Plane Tree (also known as Hybrid Plane)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Magnoliophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Proteales, Family: Platanaceae, Genus: Platanus, Species: Platanus × acerifolia · Platanaceae (Plane-tree family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Platanus × acerifolia (Confidence Level: High)
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Platanaceae (Plane-tree family)
Shape
Palmately lobed (typically 3-5 lobes), maple-like in appearance with relatively shallow sinuses compared to Oriental Plane.
Size
Large; approximately 6-10 inches wide and long. This specimen appears mature and falls within the typical range for the hybrid species.
Margin
Coarsely toothed or serrate along the lobes, with pointed tips.
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common; it is one of the most widely planted urban street trees in the world.
Color & Pattern
Upper surface is a medium to dark forest green; lower surface is typically paler. In autumn, they transition to a dull yellow-brown. No significant variegation is present in this specimen.
Venation Pattern
Palmate; multiple primary veins radiate from the base of the leaf blade, with secondary reticulate (net-like) venation.
Texture & Surface
Leathery (coriaceous) and mostly smooth (glabrous) on top when mature, though young leaves may have fine, fuzzy hairs. The texture is sturdy and somewhat stiff.
Description
A massive, fast-growing deciduous tree reaching up to 100 feet. It is famous for its 'camouflage' bark that peels away in large flakes to reveal creamy, olive, and tan patches underneath. It produces spherical, bristly seed balls that hang in pairs.
Key Features
Distinctive exfoliating bark, maple-like alternate leaves, and fuzzy seed balls (usually two per stalk). The base of the petiole is hollow and covers the next year's bud.
Habitat
Extremely tolerant of urban conditions including air pollution and compacted soil. Often found in city parks, lining streets, and in temperate urban landscapes.
Geographic Range
Originating as a hybrid between P. occidentalis and P. orientalis in Europe; now planted extensively throughout North America, Europe, and Australia.
Condition Notes
The leaf appears to be in Good to Excellent condition. There is no significant evidence of Anthracnose (a common fungal issue for the genus) or lace bug damage in this frame.
Interesting Facts
The London Plane is exceptionally good at 'eating' pollution; its bark peels off to shed absorbed particulates, allowing the tree to breathe in smoggy environments.
Medicinal & Uses
Primarily used as an ornamental and shade tree. The wood is decorative ('Lacewood') and used for furniture and veneers. Not widely used for medicinal purposes.
Ecological Role
Provides nesting sites for birds and squirrels. While it has low value for specialized insects, its massive canopy provides significant urban cooling and carbon sequestration.
Similar Species
American Sycamore (Platanus occidentalis) which usually has single seed balls and more white bark; Maple trees (Acer spp.) which have opposite leaf arrangement.
Foraging Tips
Look for the distinctive 'zigzag' pattern of the twigs. Check the leaf arrangement: if it is alternate and looks like a maple, it is likely a Plane or Sycamore. Not generally foraged for food.
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. However, the fine hairs on young leaves and the dust from seed balls can cause respiratory irritation or skin itchiness in sensitive individuals.